What’s driving the latest footwear trend?
The closest you will get to wearing slippers outdoors, driving shoes were designed for greater pedal control, with soft moccasin construction, a thin, fully flexible sole and rubber grips that extend up the heel. But they have come into their own during lockdown. Comfortable enough to wear around the home or to meet friends (for now, on a park bench), they’ve escaped the association with Flavio Briatore sunning himself in Sardinia.
Tod’s and (Prada-owned) Car Shoe are the Aston Martin and Ferrari of the driving shoe world, and commensurately expensive, but you can pick up a decent pair for as little as £45 at Marks & Spencer, Zara, Mango and Office.
While suede is by far the most popular choice (Fairfax & Favor has that covered), other materials are becoming more popular. Harrys of London has a selection in hi-tech performance fabrics, and Dune’s softly burnished leather Beacons, with woven trim, are the perfect casual-formal style.
Tread carefully on colour choice; this is where the Italian playboy connotations come from. You’ll get more use out of navy, grey, khaki, chocolate or sand, although I do have a soft-spot for Gant’s iron-red Nicehill moccasin. The best way to add interest is a flash of contrast, like in Russell & Bromley and Barbour’s side-stripes of grosgrain ribbon.
On the divisive subject of socks or no socks, frankly both are acceptable. It entirely depends on your preference – unlike a deck shoe, which shares some characteristics but should always be worn without, for obvious reasons. Nobody wants soggy socks.