Shoe game strong

Nothing will betray an outfit like a bad shoe. And there are few things people in this industry love more than slapping on a sneaker with a formal look. In the case of Al Pacino, who wore all-black Hokas with his suit at The Game Awards last year, this can work. But in most other cases, sneakers can cheapen a look or make the wearer seem like they’re grasping too hard at youthfulness. If you absolutely have to wear a sneaker, make sure it looks new (even if it’s not, you can easily clean sneakers to a point where they appear to be just out of the box), and avoid anything too loud unless you have the swag to back it up. There’s nothing more cringe than an older white guy wearing a “drippy” sneaker.

If you’re not planning on wearing a shoe that will allow you to run away from any Gamer Discourse that night, think about the silhouette you’re hoping to achieve. If you’re wearing really skinny pants (please don’t, that’s very 2010s, it’s done), then a big, heavy boot or dress shoe will make you look like Goofy. If your outfit is rather loud (like mine is) then keep your shoe simple to avoid looking busy. You can find reasonably priced, sustainably made shoes at Alohas, or find deals on luxury shoes at SSENSE.

A shoe, like accessories, can elevate any look. Try on your outfit with some shoe options, take a few pictures, walk around in it—you’ll soon see how quickly what’s on your feet can take something from basic to baddie.