The Perfect Wedding Shoe: Why Modern Grooms Are Choosing Del Toro

Step Into Your Big Day With Confidence

A wedding suit or tuxedo is often rented or bought specifically for one day. But your shoes? Your shoes should be an investment that lasts a lifetime.

At Del Toro, we have noticed a shift in men’s wedding fashion. The stiff, uncomfortable patent leather rental shoes are out. In their place, grooms are choosing Italian craftsmanship, personal expression, and comfort. Whether you are hosting a black-tie gala at The Plaza or a beach ceremony in Tulum, Del Toro offers the definitive footwear for the modern groom.

3 Styles for Every Type of Wedding

Matching your shoe to the venue and dress code is the first rule of wedding style. Here is how to pair our icons with your ceremony.

1. The Formal Church or Ballroom Wedding (Black Tie)

If the invitation says "Black Tie," tradition is key—but it doesn't have to be boring.

The Shoe: The Black Velvet Slipper
Why it works: Velvet is the accepted, sophisticated alternative to standard patent leather lace-ups. It absorbs light in photos, offering a rich, textural contrast to the satin lapels of a tuxedo.
Style Tip: Go for a plain black velvet vamp for a sleek look, or add a tonal black engravement for a subtle detail that only you know is there.

2. The Garden or Vineyard Wedding (Cocktail Attire)

For outdoor venues where the vibe is romantic but slightly more relaxed.

The Shoe: The Milano Loafer in premium Italian Suede or Leather.
Why it works: A loafer strikes the perfect balance between formal and festive. Suede (in Cognac, Grey, Navy, or Chocolate) complements the natural setting and pairs beautifully with grey, blue, or tan suits. Leather is a staple and can go with nearly everything if you stick with Black, Brown and other darker colors.
Style Tip: Ensure you choose a low-profile sock or go "sockless" (with no-show socks) to keep the look airy and modern.

3. The Destination or Beach Wedding (Resort Formal)

Sand, sun, and linen suits.

The Shoe: The Unlined Suede Centesimo Penny Loafer.
Why it works: You need breathability. Our unlined collection is soft, flexible, and keeps your feet cool even in tropical heat.
Style Tip: Stick to lighter tones like Tan, Sand, or light Grey to reflect the sun and match the lighter fabrics of your suit.

The Ultimate Personalization: Custom Wedding Shoes

Your wedding is personal. Your shoes should be, too. Del Toro’s Custom Program allows grooms to create a pair of shoes that serve as a memento of the day long after the last dance.

Popular Customizations for Grooms:

The Date: Engrave your wedding date on the heel or the side of the slipper.
The Monogram: Your initials on the left shoe, her/his initials on the right shoe.
The Secret Message: Some grooms opt for a meaningful symbol or coordinate related to where they met.

Note: Custom shoes take time to handcraft in Italy. We recommend ordering at least 8-10 weeks before your first fitting.

Groomsmen Gifts: The "Bachelor Party" Shoe

Tired of giving flasks or pocket knives? A pair of Del Toro loafers is the ultimate groomsmen gift. It ensures your entire party looks uniform in photos, and unlike a trinket, they will actually wear these shoes again.

The Move: Gift your groomsmen matching Black Velvet Slippers for the reception. It signals that the formal ceremony is over and the party has begun.
The Real Move: Add on our Formalwear Bundle to make sure everyone has matching bow ties, suspenders, socks, and pocket squares. The same bundle option is available with a tie and belt if the dress code is "suit and tie".

Wedding Timeline: When to Buy Your Shoes

To ensure you aren't scrambling the week before the wedding, follow this schedule:

3 Months Out: Order your shoes (especially if Custom).
6 Weeks Out (First Fitting): Bring your shoes to your tailor. This is crucial. The tailor needs to hem your trousers based on the height of the shoe's heel and vamp so they drape perfectly.
2 Weeks Out: Wear them around the house (on carpet) for an hour or two. While Del Toro shoes require little break-in, you want them to feel like a second skin on the big day.

Shop the Wedding Edit

FAQ: The Groom’s Guide

Q: Can I wear loafers with a tuxedo?

A: Absolutely. In fact, a velvet or patent loafer is considered more stylish than a lace-up oxford in modern black-tie rules. Just ensure the pant leg has no break (doesn't bunch at the bottom) so the shoe is fully visible.

Q: My wedding is outdoors. Will velvet get ruined?

A: If you are walking on grass or sand, we recommend Suede or Leather instead of Velvet. Velvet can easily pick up dust and grass stains. If you have your heart set on velvet, stick to paved areas or indoor receptions.

Q: Do you offer bulk discounts for groomsmen?

A: We love outfitting wedding parties. Please contact our Wedding Concierge to discuss packages for wedding parties.