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

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.
www.realmenrealstyle.com/whol... - Click here to read the article: Whole Cut vs. Oxford Dress Shoes
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[@RealMenRealStyle]

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]

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]

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]

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

[@josecorrea1874]

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

[@davidrakes3618]

Interesting. Thanks!

[@FaronPharo]

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

[@morgancarnes7686]

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.

[@tangchiprathomo819]

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

[@bjornronaldson6017]

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]

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

[@ravipeiris4388]

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

[@Arthurian.]

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

[@DemetriosLevi]

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!

[@joetadlas9375]

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

[@RhythmnOfThought]

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

[@YasirKhan-ez6qo]

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

[@cajanir]

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]

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

[@singingcowboy674]

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.

[@tarekrashid5580]

Very informative. Thanks Antonio!

[@SuperAngelles]

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

[@RealMenRealStyle]

Gone - You are welcome.

[@agbook2007]

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. 👍

[@faridmahnad4985]

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

[@nonesta13]

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

[@robbrown7765]

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!

[@rickwinterfrost6284]

Your content is very legit. Very appreciate it !

[@RealMenRealStyle]

Thank you sir!

[@CaptJanmejayVaishnav]

Agree fully. Thanks for your excellent videos.

[@aaronarguelles8322]

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

[@KuyaChrisFOfficial]

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

[@RealMenRealStyle]

Finally, someone noticed :)

[@alphadelta12121979]

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

[@paarthkaushal2395]

Good video and amazing library Antonio 👌👌

[@changsangchingmak735]

I agree Mr.Antonio.

[@jf56msk]

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

[@danielquintero2339]

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]

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]

🎯

[@axiomaddict]

Agreed.

[@lawman722]

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

[@bm9074]

I agree as well nice job

[@elsentai100]

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

[@IkennaOyenta]

I think I prefer the Wholecut 😎 the simplicity is gorgeous

[@nabeelmirza6060]

Very informative. Thanks Sir

[@samadabdulhameed8341]

Beautifully explained..

[@legaspiaudio9830]

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

[@declanbartlette3074]

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).

[@SukrutHassamanis]

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

[@aaronspringborn34]

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

[@MOHAMEDNASEKA]

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

[@skyyvodca]

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.

[@mr.v1014]

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.

[@kahlilhernandez7143]

Nice collection of books over there Antonio.

[@krollic]

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

[@RealMenRealStyle]

That's for ANOTHER video.

[@georgehamilton6241]

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

[@MrTtaakk]

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.

[@calihasan199]

Thanks .always we beleave you for ever

[@leroy592]

Good stuff!!

[@aaronspringborn34]

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

[@JamesBond-rl1up]

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

[@rishi_tidke]

Totally Agree!!!

[@gidbey9671]

Do you have any videos on mirror shoes please? I need more info on that

[@MrMonk-zr7uc]

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

[@darrylsprowal6463]

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!

[@juansantiago3858]

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.

[@simonbelmon]

Hello! I usually carry 2 phones, wallet, keys, a microphone among other things. Your thoughts on man bags? Any pointers you can give me? Keep up the great work!

[@gemtoothagr]

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.

[@LongNguyen-gq1kq]

Great content

[@martinnogales2259]

Two thumbs up!!!

[@eyesoulyou2086]

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

[@RevJamesCostello]

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

[@axiomaddict]

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.

[@MrBanegasgaleas]

Totally agree I love the oxfords 👞

[@theirongiantbigdawg]

It really is a philosophical question

[@raslah6810]

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

[@arkkhan5201]

I love brown captoe oxford with quarter brogue.

[@donlozon1538]

Antonio, what’s your opinion on Beckett Simonons Grant Adelaides? They are constructed like a wholecut but they have some brouging. Would this make it more casual and could they be worn with a great pair of slim fit indigo jeans?

[@augustocruz9429]

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

[@hollywoodeats33]

Love the Oxford.. 👌🏽

[@rienie13]

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!

[@nutyyyy]

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.

[@Mowuniverse]

I want to see Boots some casual and formal ones.

[@RealMenRealStyle]

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

[@Mowuniverse]

Real Men Real Style awesome thanks

[@whosssstaco]

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

[@johngriffin2911]

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..

[@abrarahmad00]

I love Oxford shoes

[@yusufahmed8980]

I agree completely

[@godra051]

Can you please check the video on Sartorial talks how he did list of shoes. Producer with price range etc. I see you get sponsorships and some are having great designs. Can you make your top 20 shoemaker as well? I forgot the brand you recomended in one video and can't find it😐

[@felixniederhauser7799]

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

[@jdstarek]

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.

[@aaronspringborn34]

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.

[@MrEdu0804]

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.

[@natt2511]

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.

[@keithbussanich]

Antonio what is your take on Smartwatches? Can they be worn in a semi formal setting? Do you have any recommendations?

[@RealMenRealStyle]

Keith - Here you go: www.realmenrealstyle.com/guide-to-smart-watches/

[@telecasterbear]

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

[@passmycontroller3653]

Hey antonio, i want your opinion on street war

[@robertjames4994]

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

[@PracticalInspiration]

Nice, I had a feeling you would say the Balmoral Oxford and I agree wholeheartedly. Also, those are really nice shoes in the video!

[@jasonackerman9453]

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

[@jsmith3478]

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

[@tejaskondgekar5509]

I like your video but wholecut is my fevrate

[@dwampss]

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

[@hemigod2]

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.

[@dlee645]

I agree. Tradition gives the balmoral oxford the edge.

[@wajahatimam5624]

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

[@arepj6108]

@@louiscyfer6944 lol

[@sperformance.96]

I love brown shoes and boots

[@enzofudo7872]

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

[@kolinmartz]

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.

[@meekrodriguez6438]

Nice shoes

[@sdwayne10]

I like wholecut with a casual look.

[@jdmitchell2]

Does color (black vs brown) figure into the equation?

[@spectre5x5]

I agree that the oxford is classic and my go to shoe with a dark suit. But what about a very formal white tie event?

[@timcorrell9863]

Court shoes (also known as opera pumps) with a black solid grosgrain flat or pinched bow. If you don’t like court shoes, then plain toe or whole cut oxfords with black solid grosgrain laces. The black solid grosgrain should be 75-100% silk and 0-25% synthetic on both shoe styles. And no brogues on either shoe style.

[@tapashh0033]

Agreed sir