SHOES: You will want a good, quality pair of men’s dress shoes that are very comfortable, as you usually are spending long hours on your feet. Look for quality leather that is hand-stitched, these can be found in the Men’s department of the high-end department stores. Like any footwear, your dress shoes need to fit properly. Wear them out several times before your assignment in order to break them in. Be sure to wear the appropriate socks when trying the shoes on, before purchasing. They need to be polished and maintained. Shoes are a small detail, but an important one. Dress shoes can be a little slippery on wet surfaces, but this is easily remedied by a little grip tape on the sole and at the toe, if it is a problem. Keep in mind that if it is too rough, then you will mar the finish on some waxed and polished surfaces or wood.
The more you wear hard-soled dress shoes, the more your feet will become accustomed to them. If the sole really bothers you, a shoe repair store can put in some sort of an insert (rubber or gel.) It is preferable for you to look and dress like the people you are accompanying, and that means proper dress shoes regardless of comfort. Spend the money on your shoes–it is worth it! Black is usually the best bet, as they will go with dark suits.
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