09/21/2026
Recently our CEO Jeff Lahens stopped by Colonial Shoe Repair and Cobbler in downtown Boston to drop off two pairs of shoes for cleaning. He expected to be back at the office within minutes.
Instead, Greg Papazian and Jeff started talking and what was supposed to be a five-minute errand turned into a 45-minute conversation about shoes, craftsmanship, and personal style.
They compared the shoes they trust, which brands are worth the investment, what construction methods age well, when a shoe is worth repairing rather than replacing, and—most importantly—what shoes actually work with different kinds of tailoring.
At one point, Jeff realized this is the conversation we have with clients every week. Our clients constantly ask us: What shoes should I wear with this?
While our answers stem from traditional style guidelines, it’s never a one-size-fits-all type of answer. We take our clients’ garment, occasion, personal style, and what story they’re looking to tell with their ensemble into consideration.
We decided to put the conversation into writing with “What Shoes to Wear with a Suit: A Complete Guide”. It’s a practical guide to building a footwear wardrobe for tuxedos, business attire, casual tailoring, and everything in between.
One of the biggest lessons from Jeff’s conversation with Greg and from crafting this guide is that the shoes can change the entire story of an outfit. The same navy suit can feel formal and authoritative with a black Oxford, relaxed with a brown loafer, or contemporary with a refined sneaker.
The suit hasn’t changed.
The shoes changed the story.
At 9Tailors Boston, we believe tailoring should be designed around how you actually live—not simply around the garment itself. Your shoes, your lifestyle, the occasion, your comfort, and your personal expression are all part of that picture.
Read the full guide over on our blog, The Stitch.
