Whole-Cuts Vs Oxfords | Which Dress Shoe Is More Formal? Balmoral Oxford or Wholecuts

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  • Опубліковано 4 жов 2024
  • Which dress shoe is more formal? The Balmoral Oxford or the Wholecut? In today's video, I answer this age-old question. Each shoe has interesting history behind it, each has its place in a man's wardrobe. Which do you wear with a tuxedo? Which is easier to dress down? Which is more expensive to make, and why? For answers to these questions, plus some awesome style tips on upping YOUR shoe game, check out the video. Remember gentlemen, shoes matter. Make sure you're wearing the right one.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 227

  • @RealMenRealStyle
    @RealMenRealStyle  6 років тому +27

    Which dress shoe is more formal? The Balmoral Oxford or the Wholecut? Comment below!
    www.realmenrealstyle.com/wholecut-oxford-dress-shoes/. - Click here to read the article: Whole Cut vs. Oxford Dress Shoes

    • @SteamHunterKostas
      @SteamHunterKostas 6 років тому +3

      Real Men Real Style hi Antonio, I do not think there is anything more elegant than a wholecut. Have you heard or tried Carlos santos from Portugal? I have seen their products and are amazing.
      See you on the group and the next video.

    • @acidofil87
      @acidofil87 6 років тому +4

      Real Men Real Style Antonio, please do not confuse Balmorals with Oxfords. The shoes that you showcase are not Balmorals, but just straight Oxfords.

    • @krishmaheshwari7531
      @krishmaheshwari7531 6 років тому +2

      Sir can I wear a single monk strap with a dark and light navy blue suit

    • @josecorrea1874
      @josecorrea1874 6 років тому +2

      Hello Mr. Antonio, I feel that the wholecut would be more business like shoes over the Balmoral Oxford. Thank you for the video.

    • @davidrakes3618
      @davidrakes3618 6 років тому +2

      Interesting. Thanks!

  • @tangchiprathomo819
    @tangchiprathomo819 6 років тому +40

    Balmoral for office environment, Wholecut for wedding/funeral/gala dinner.

  • @bjornronaldson6017
    @bjornronaldson6017 6 років тому +14

    The Oxford brings the weight of tradition to the table certainly and for that reason, I agree with you. I feel that whole-cut is more of a subtle indicator of personal style and wealth. The whole-cut is not something I would choose for a board meeting or a black tie dinner, but would top my list for social gatherings, weddings or parties.

    • @bryankc9644
      @bryankc9644 2 роки тому

      Yep, a whole cut with painted patina is definitely a flex, like blue suede was in Elvis day

  • @pranavsambamurti7746
    @pranavsambamurti7746 Місяць тому +1

    Thanks Antonio! I just love the look of the whole-cut, and it seems to have a unique feel having a single piece of super quality leather wrapped around your foot. Great review as always.....

  • @ravipeiris4388
    @ravipeiris4388 3 роки тому +9

    I find the Wholecut more refined and with it's understated elegance, the more formal of the two types of shoes.

  • @FaronPharo
    @FaronPharo 4 роки тому +8

    The most formal shoe is the Sandle Boot. It has thousands of years of tradition and can worn with a toga.

  • @morgancarnes7686
    @morgancarnes7686 6 років тому +36

    I understand that just because of tradition, as you said, the Balmoral is your pick. But I do not believe it will remain that way. The whole cut is much more aesthetically pleasing and by the time we are old men, the whole cut will be the go-to formal shoe.

    • @radekkubica6089
      @radekkubica6089 28 днів тому

      @@morgancarnes7686 that's highly subjective opinion. I find the Balmoral to be much more aesthetically pleasing, whole cuts are too simple for me.

  • @YasirKhan-ez6qo
    @YasirKhan-ez6qo 6 років тому +80

    Whole Cuts look more formal to me... It's just my opinion.

    • @cajanir
      @cajanir 6 років тому +8

      Agreed. I think that's what Antonio was saying too... The Oxford only wins out because it's much older and has traditionally been the most formal dress shoe.

    • @keithbussanich
      @keithbussanich 6 років тому +4

      Both fit in to a formal setting. It comes down to a matter of opinion and what looks good on you. Similar to suit style preference. Some like English cut some like Italian cut

  • @TingTingalingy
    @TingTingalingy 6 місяців тому +1

    I'm a woman and I appreciate your videos. It applies to women more than I expected. Stay sharp

  • @agbook2007
    @agbook2007 6 років тому +5

    I like the whole cuts better. I think the simplicity gives it the edge of formality over simply the “traditional” element of the Balmoral. Though the reasoning you give, Antonio, is sound. 👍

  • @DemetriosLevi
    @DemetriosLevi 6 років тому +4

    I definitely agree with you on this one. Much of formality seems to stem from lengthy tradition. Being over 100 years, I feel it would take a long time for the wholecut to possibly be the most formal. Great thoughts as always, sir!

  • @MrTtaakk
    @MrTtaakk 6 років тому +4

    I agree with you RMRS, the Balmoral Oxford is more formal. However, personally prefer wearing Wholecut it's stylish, slick & cool. The Wholecut is me all day & night.

  • @danielquintero2339
    @danielquintero2339 6 років тому +16

    Antonio I disagree and here is why. Historically the oxfords was the perfect business shoe and the most formal shoe to wear during the day. But even 100 years ago wholecuts were a thing you just only saw them in evening attire like white tie and black tie. Not to mention you could always wear a whole cut to a black tie event at any point in history but it has only been in the last 50 or so years that you could even think of wearing a captoe to a black tie event. But even today it is still unacceptable to wear a captoe for a white tie event you can only wear a plain oxford, a whole cut or opera pumps. So since the whole cut can be worn for white tie but the captoe can’t the whole cut is the most formal. But of course you can’t forget that the most formal shoe is the opera pump,

    • @alan2a1l
      @alan2a1l Рік тому

      I agree about the opera pump. In fact, though, the lace-up opera pumps, in patent leather, are essentially closed-lace-system (Balmoral, vs Blucher) whole cuts with an all-over polish that would likely hide any imperfections in the leather under that glossy finish. So history is _actually_ on YOUR side, in this case, if you define an opera pump as a glossy version of the whole cut.

    • @Sc0rpion68
      @Sc0rpion68 Рік тому

      🎯

    • @axiomaddict
      @axiomaddict 11 місяців тому

      Agreed.

  • @MOHAMEDNASEKA
    @MOHAMEDNASEKA 2 роки тому

    Hello. Am from India. And named Mohammed Ali. Your English is so good and so easy to understand.

  • @singingcowboy674
    @singingcowboy674 6 років тому +1

    Agree. I have appreciation for BOTH. I really like how the whole cut has that clean look and is actually more difficult to make due to having to find the perfect leather. The streamline with them. I would consider the whole cap maybe a BETTER shoe but definitely the Balmoral is the dressier. The breaking up and the lines around it act much like medals on a military dress uniform. It highlights.

  • @alphadelta12121979
    @alphadelta12121979 Рік тому +1

    That is the spot on difference between scotch and single malt :)
    I do wear capped toes but I'd prefer wholecut over Balmoral anyday.

  • @IkennaOyenta
    @IkennaOyenta 6 років тому +1

    I think I prefer the Wholecut 😎 the simplicity is gorgeous

  • @faridmahnad4985
    @faridmahnad4985 6 років тому +3

    thanks antonio,
    before watching this video i think balmoral is more formal but i prefer the wholecut.

  • @changsangchingmak735
    @changsangchingmak735 6 років тому +4

    I agree Mr.Antonio.

  • @declanbartlette3074
    @declanbartlette3074 6 років тому +1

    I would go with both balmorals and wholecuts: the balmoral for a more traditional, conservative look; and the wholecut to add a contemporary flare (especially with a suit).

  • @MrMonk-zr7uc
    @MrMonk-zr7uc 6 років тому +3

    I think, that the wholecut could also be worn with more casual combinations, because it is simplistic and modern.

  • @bm9074
    @bm9074 6 років тому +5

    I agree as well nice job

  • @juansantiago3858
    @juansantiago3858 6 місяців тому

    My understanding is that the cap toe is a business shoe for the day, and the whole cut is a slight bit more formal for evening wear and such. At least that is what I have learned over the years.

  • @elsentai100
    @elsentai100 6 років тому

    When i wear tuxedo always going with Black wholecut. If i wanna wear a twobutton suit i go with Black oxford. Great video Antonio as always

  • @jf56msk
    @jf56msk 6 років тому +1

    I don't like toe cap shoes so I'm going with the wholecut and when I wear mine I always get great feedback.

  • @SuperAngelles
    @SuperAngelles 6 років тому +1

    I really learned a lot in this video I had no idea about the various names to mens shoes. Thank you.

  • @lawman722
    @lawman722 2 роки тому

    A well polished shoe..either of the reference shoes will be a win win.. both have a good look either way ..nice video sir!

  • @RevJamesCostello
    @RevJamesCostello 6 років тому +50

    The whole cut is more ostentatious. The cap-toe says ‘I mean business’.

  • @nutyyyy
    @nutyyyy 5 років тому

    The wholecut in my opinion can work with black or white tie as well as the office. Whereas the cap toe is best for business.

  • @axiomaddict
    @axiomaddict 11 місяців тому

    I’m interested finding a black pair of used, well cared-for wholecuts. I have never cared for the captoe. It has always looked a bit like a frankenshoe to me, like a compromise of some sort. I have no need to wear a strictly conventional dress shoe for business. For my work I have three pairs of wingtips, and a pair of saddleshoes. I want the black wholecuts for shows (I’m a musician in a jazz big band), funerals, weddings, and more formal dates. And I always prefer a “less is more” look in builds and designs.

  • @raslah6810
    @raslah6810 5 років тому

    I agree. Wholecuts draws more attention and are for that reason more casual.

  • @dwampss
    @dwampss Рік тому +1

    A wholecut is more formal because it has fewer seams. A cap toe is more traditional and can be worn in a larger variety of settings

  • @joetadlas9375
    @joetadlas9375 6 років тому +3

    Another nice and informative video. Thanks. You deserve more subs and viewers!

  • @krollic
    @krollic 6 років тому +1

    I have a pair of whole-cut dress boots. They are just like oxfords but with the ankle. Pretty unusual but I think you'd like them

  • @darrylsprowal6463
    @darrylsprowal6463 2 роки тому

    You are wrong about the more dressy, hands down it’s the whole cut, then the Ox! Haha, thanks for the fashion tips. You are invaluable as a style resource!! Keep it coming!

  • @tarekrashid5580
    @tarekrashid5580 6 років тому +1

    Very informative. Thanks Antonio!

  • @jdstarek
    @jdstarek 6 років тому +1

    Antonio, great vid...even the most stylish among us can get caught up in this topic. My thoughts are as such:
    With lace-up shoes, less stitching = more formal
    With slip-ops, more structured = more formal
    Whole cut > plain toe > cap toe > derby > penny loafer > tassel/horse bit loafer > driver > boat shoe > moccasin > barefoot and homeless.
    Monks throw a bit of a wrench in the works, as they can be very formal or casual. Generally, I’d say more formal than a Derby.
    As with all, the more brogueing, the less formal.

  • @theirongiantbigdawg
    @theirongiantbigdawg 6 років тому

    It really is a philosophical question

  • @nonesta13
    @nonesta13 6 років тому +1

    Recently I’ve taken more casual steps in my attire and I’ve seen some brands make their whole cuts look extremely casual with tumbled leather, also I think dark brown balmore oxfords go well with dark blue jeans

  • @augustocruz9429
    @augustocruz9429 4 роки тому

    I think it’s more personal decision and taste. Both are elegant.

  • @Mowuniverse
    @Mowuniverse 6 років тому +11

    I want to see Boots some casual and formal ones.

    • @RealMenRealStyle
      @RealMenRealStyle  6 років тому +2

      I thought I filmed it already? Here you go: www.realmenrealstyle.com/match-dress-shoes-formal-casual/

    • @Mowuniverse
      @Mowuniverse 6 років тому

      Real Men Real Style awesome thanks

  • @mr.v1014
    @mr.v1014 5 років тому

    I see where you are coming from on your decision. ...I simple thought of what shoe would look worse with dark blue casual jeans. The answer Balmoral.

  • @rickwinterfrost6284
    @rickwinterfrost6284 6 років тому +2

    Your content is very legit. Very appreciate it !

  • @arkkhan5201
    @arkkhan5201 Рік тому

    I love brown captoe oxford with quarter brogue.

  • @RhythmnOfThought
    @RhythmnOfThought 6 років тому

    As always, a higly educational and interesting video. It seems like you have integrated my idea of switching up backgrounds - that's great!

  • @natt2511
    @natt2511 6 років тому

    Dear Mr. Centeno,
    The main reason of my argument is the "broke".
    The more "broke" a pair of shoes has the less formal it is...this is the way we rank formality of dress shoes. So the the whole cut in my opinion which had least additional line or "no broke" on the "body" should be the most formal shoes.
    This is my point.
    But I do respect your opinion based on the period of time the cap toed Oxford exists.
    Ps. I am a big fan of you from Thailand.

  • @MrBanegasgaleas
    @MrBanegasgaleas 5 років тому

    Totally agree I love the oxfords 👞

  • @samadabdulhameed8341
    @samadabdulhameed8341 6 років тому

    Beautifully explained..

  • @rienie13
    @rienie13 6 років тому +1

    3 days ago I had a dream about you buying a pair of shoes from the store I work in. A little creepy but If you ever happen to be in the Netherlands some day, give us a visit!

  • @felixniederhauser7799
    @felixniederhauser7799 6 років тому +3

    prefer the wholecut
    NB:However it is good to have them all. :D

  • @erichziegler7594
    @erichziegler7594 6 років тому +2

    I love the look of the whole cut, but you are right with the Oxford being more formal because that's been the go to for a long time

    • @RealMenRealStyle
      @RealMenRealStyle  6 років тому +1

      Exactly.

    • @arx3516
      @arx3516 6 років тому

      True, remember that the formal suits of today were once the outfit of the commoner.

  • @aaronspringborn34
    @aaronspringborn34 6 років тому

    WOW. I am surprise with your verdict. Great choices but I say the wholecuts for the reasons as you said.

  • @adrianhanekom2978
    @adrianhanekom2978 6 років тому +15

    I agree with you RMRS

  • @johngriffin2911
    @johngriffin2911 Рік тому

    The whole cut is a better shoe, because of it's simplicity and it is unblemished by stitching and it's pleasant to the eyes..

  • @gemtoothagr
    @gemtoothagr 6 років тому

    I don’t disagree but if I were to pick one I would pick the wholecut just personal preference. Thank you again for the advice and i am still waiting for an episode on kilts it’s been well over a year where is it.

  • @MrEdu0804
    @MrEdu0804 4 роки тому

    To me, they are about the same in formality, but if you want to stand out, I think going for wholecut is a better go.

  • @CaptJanmejayVaishnav
    @CaptJanmejayVaishnav 6 років тому

    Agree fully. Thanks for your excellent videos.

  • @aaronspringborn34
    @aaronspringborn34 6 років тому

    Comparison videos, what shade of brown is most versatile and more formal or causal? Also most formal loafer to most causal loafer? Also comparing all of your dress shoes sponsors as a non sponsored video and same with boots. Those are my ideas.

  • @abrarahmad00
    @abrarahmad00 6 років тому +2

    I love Oxford shoes

  • @DavidSaintloth
    @DavidSaintloth 5 років тому +2

    Your conclusion demonstrates a slight inconsistency in the rational you used to define the difference between more formal and more casual shoes.
    You were consistent in stating that broguing or an open lacing system automatically decline a shoe from formality. Since broguing and lacing systems are specifically types of cuts to the continuity of the leather it makes sense that you are saying that "the more you cut the leather the less formal it is"
    Which then necessitates that a shoe with minimal cutting (a whole cut) is going to be the pinnacle of "formality" using your own rubric taken to consistent application.
    That's the logical answer.
    Another possible variation in the range from formal to casual is the shoes color....I would assert that a flaming red wholecut is way less formal than a black oxford or even derby with broguing. So its important to factor in color as a modulating factor independent of the cut of the shoe. That said the standard colors (black, brown, sienna, burgondie ) are sufficiently muted that I would put a whole cut with either of those colors above ANY style or color of shoe that is not a whole cut....its only when BOLD color territory is crossed that a whole cut would descend possibly below say a clean unbrogued balmoral oxford, or wingtip or derby etc. The main variable criteria here is that "formality" is defined within the social context of where one will wear the shoes....if the environments in which the shoe can be worn with a minimal amount of "peacocking" happening inadvertently or not then it descends from formality as a hallmark of formal events is not peacocking but rather conformity....hence why the standard colors on a whole cut still put them above any other cut but BOLD colors on them do not.

  • @robertjames4994
    @robertjames4994 6 років тому

    The WHOLE CUT in it's simplistic makes it IMO the dressiest shoe.

  • @dlee645
    @dlee645 6 років тому

    I agree. Tradition gives the balmoral oxford the edge.

  • @eyesoulyou2086
    @eyesoulyou2086 Рік тому

    Possible to use whole cut ( light brown ) with casual business outfit ? Even some dark jeans ? I love them

  • @tejaskondgekar5509
    @tejaskondgekar5509 5 років тому

    I like your video but wholecut is my fevrate

  • @KuyaChrisFOfficial
    @KuyaChrisFOfficial 6 років тому +1

    I like the book background!! The books help the info video. Keep it up!

  • @hemigod2
    @hemigod2 Рік тому

    In the vein that less is more I will have to go with the whole cook being the most formal. The cap toe has that and the vamp marker. Whereas a whole cut has nothing at all.

  • @paarthkaushal2395
    @paarthkaushal2395 6 років тому

    Good video and amazing library Antonio 👌👌

  • @kolinmartz
    @kolinmartz 4 роки тому +1

    I think whole cuts are on the same level as cap toes. It’s not there to supplant it but both should be acceptable at the same level of formality. I’d like to have a little more variety on each level of formality.

  • @SukrutHassamanees
    @SukrutHassamanees 6 років тому +1

    Can you please share your opinions about shoes for jeans and what to check in before buying.

  • @kahlilhernandez7143
    @kahlilhernandez7143 6 років тому

    Nice collection of books over there Antonio.

  • @robbrown7765
    @robbrown7765 6 років тому

    This has been a very informative video. Thanks, Antonio.
    A while ago I had surgery on my leg and had to start wearing velcro "dress" shoes. (Gasp, groan.) I hope someday to get back to lacing up my black Balmoral Oxfords. You can't beat those for formal dress shoes. I've also got some mid-brown Wing Tips which I really like. And I have a pair Oxblood (or is it Burgundy?) Wholecuts which I thoroughly enjoy, but which are a bit less formal, meaning I haven't worn them as often. With those three I really don't need anything else (except for sports shoes). Someday I'd like a pair of Monk Straps, but there lots of things I need before those.
    Semper fi, Captain!

  • @markcovka6549
    @markcovka6549 6 років тому +7

    Oxford all day

  • @calihasan199
    @calihasan199 6 років тому

    Thanks .always we beleave you for ever

  • @skyyvodca
    @skyyvodca 5 років тому

    I've seen a wholecut shoes last week in a mall and love at first sight but never knew what it's called until today.

  • @legaspiaudio9830
    @legaspiaudio9830 4 місяці тому

    Mr. Centeno, will the Whole Cut work for a tuxedo? great channel and info... blessings 🙏🏻

  • @wanedaordonez8174
    @wanedaordonez8174 Рік тому

    Where would Allen Edmonds whole cut Fairfax in black stand as far as versatility ? Jeans?business casual ? Wedding? It is also a semi-brogue-ish

  • @jsmith3478
    @jsmith3478 5 років тому

    I like both, but I think the whole cut is dressier and more modern. They work well with a slim fit modern suit

  • @RebelFan
    @RebelFan 6 років тому

    Wholecuts are all I wear for suits

  • @jasonackerman9453
    @jasonackerman9453 6 років тому

    plain toe derby vs semi brogue Oxford or semi brogue derby vs wingtip Oxford.

  • @sdwayne10
    @sdwayne10 5 років тому

    I like wholecut with a casual look.

  • @omarsharif8815
    @omarsharif8815 6 років тому

    Balmoral Oxford. But it's only because of perception which could change over time.

  • @nabeelmirza6060
    @nabeelmirza6060 6 років тому

    Very informative.
    Thanks Sir

  • @aaronarguelles8322
    @aaronarguelles8322 6 років тому +2

    Antonio my brother, where do you get those awesome sport coats from. They are always on point! Love your videos.

  • @sperformance.96
    @sperformance.96 6 років тому

    I love brown shoes and boots

  • @rishi_tidke
    @rishi_tidke 6 років тому +1

    Totally Agree!!!

  • @telecasterbear
    @telecasterbear 3 роки тому

    The whole cuts look like the shoes that new wave band members used to wear forty years ago. I like our hosts choice.

  • @JamesBond-rl1up
    @JamesBond-rl1up 6 років тому

    More videos like this please! That's weht I'm looking for, not another tutorial on what makes a Great suit.

  • @enzofudo7872
    @enzofudo7872 6 років тому

    Is do get your point about history, but respectfully i find the wholecut to be more formal indeed deu to it's simplicity and elegance
    Excuus my english, i'm dutch

  • @charliewilson3528
    @charliewilson3528 4 роки тому

    Wholecut for me.

  • @alijan-np7tz
    @alijan-np7tz 6 років тому

    I like captoe but if I could buy only one dress shoe whole cut will always be my choice

  • @wajahatimam5624
    @wajahatimam5624 4 роки тому +10

    Leaving the historical background aside, to me whole cut shoes are more formal and elegant than oxford shoes.

    • @arepj6108
      @arepj6108 3 роки тому

      @@louiscyfer6944 lol

  • @kurtfrancis6638
    @kurtfrancis6638 5 років тому +2

    Thank you for your video, I always look forward to your insights however you have this one incorrect. None are the most formal in my opinion, there are so many contenders to the crown, eg Church's Westbury shoes, worn by James bond, heads of states etc. Carmina 187 comes in various types of leather which is also beautiful. Moreschi shoes are beautiful as well. It would be better to dress up wearing the pair of shoes you are show casing giving your viewers an idea as to why you think the toe cap or whole cut is better. Seeing the shoes in your hands does not do justice to your choice. I collect shoes and have been collecting for 35 years. I think a toe cap shoes is over rated in my opinion.

  • @whosssstaco
    @whosssstaco 6 років тому

    Make me a gentlemen, you should do a give away on those beautiful shoes!!!

  • @pianofry1138
    @pianofry1138 Рік тому

    I think the whole cut is like a turtleneck and the cap toe is like a dress shirt. The turtleneck is less formal but still looks really nice and can have a certain element of style. The cap toe is more traditional and looks more formal. Thats my two cents.

  • @leroy592
    @leroy592 6 років тому

    Good stuff!!

  • @aaronspringborn34
    @aaronspringborn34 6 років тому +1

    Also can you do a video with oneblade vs Dollar shave club please?

  • @georgehamilton6241
    @georgehamilton6241 6 років тому

    Antonio, Where is your Sport jacket from ? Looks amazing.

  • @martinnogales2259
    @martinnogales2259 6 років тому +1

    Two thumbs up!!!

  • @nicolasmogollon9253
    @nicolasmogollon9253 6 років тому

    What about boots to use with a business dress.

  • @allen31951
    @allen31951 6 років тому +3

    I agree but also concede to personal preference. Not that big of a difference in formality. The creases in the wholecut become more noticeable than in a cap toe making it a bit less crisp and formal than a wholecut......IMHO. .

    • @walksoflifesixnine
      @walksoflifesixnine 6 років тому

      Whole cuts made from shell cordovan leather...are the ultimate. Very costly, but worth it!