How To Lace Dress Shoes

Opt for straight lacing with Oxfords. If you're wearing Oxfords, straight lacing is generally the preferred style. These are very formal shoes, and straight lacing is considered slightly more formal than cross lacing.^[21]

Use cross lacing for less formal shoes. If you enjoy cross lacing, it should only be used for slightly less formal dress shoes like desert boots. While you can certainly do a straight lace for less formal shoes, it's also safe to opt for a cross lace.^[22]

Use wax cotton. If you have to buy your own laces, wax cotton is the preferred lace for dress shoes. You can buy laces online or at a department or clothing store.^[23]

Do not use athletic lace. Never use athletic lace on dress shoes. It is not considered formal enough for dress shoes and should only be used on things like tennis