What are the most popular shoe styles for students?
Acceptable School Shoe Styles for Students
The most popular and acceptable school shoe styles for students are those that align with typical school uniform requirements. Based on standard school policies, acceptable shoes typically include:
Acceptable Shoe Styles
- Plain black formal shoes
- Leather or leather-style material that can be polished
- Traditional oxford style shoes
- Simple loafers without embellishments
- Plain black lace-up shoes
- Standard black slip-on formal shoes
Unacceptable Shoe Styles
- Black trainers or sports brands (including Converse and Vans)
- Canvas or plimsoll-style shoes
- Shoes with logos, colored stitching or reflective areas
- Suede footwear (as it cannot be polished)
- Shoes with colored soles or laces
- High heels, wedges or platform styles
- Boots (except sometimes permitted for sixth form students)
Important: School shoes should be business-appropriate, uniformly black, and able to take polish. If you're unsure about a particular style, it's best to check with the school before purchasing.
Key Features to Look For
When selecting school shoes, focus on:
- Durability and quality (they need to last the school year)
- Comfort for all-day wear
- Plain black design without embellishments
- Polishable material
- Appropriate formal style
Popular brands often include Clarks, Kickers, and Trutex, which offer ranges specifically designed to meet school uniform requirements while providing comfort and durability for everyday wear.