Classic Bucks: The Perfect Casual Dress Shoe

Many of us default to boots, and they look good. They're comfortable and they're rugged. But they're not very dressy — and dressy isn't really what were going for either, we don't want to wear a leather wingtip or a cap toe, but we don't want to look like we're hiking in the woods with boots or like we just came in from a long day outside with sneakers.

There may not be many options, but there is one very good choice. The suede buck.

Bucks are similar to Blucher oxfords, they look kind of like a dress shoe, but they're made of suede and typically have a brick red sole. They're sort of like a dressed-down dress shoe.

They first appeared in the late 1800's and were intended to be tennis shoes. The originals were made from Brazilian or Chinese deerskin; being made from ‘buckskin' is where they get their name. The red sole was introduced in the 30's and Pat Boone made white bucks famous in the 50's.

Our pick is the Eastbend by Bostonian. The heritage shoe brand reintroduced a line of bucks and their timing couldn't be better. Because of their colors they look great in the spring or summer, but don't be afraid to wear them year round. Except for when the rain or snow starts coming down since they're suede you may not want to expose them to the elements.

Our personal favorites are the olive shown here, but the sand and gray suedes look great too.

At under $80 it's an easy choice. I found them to be super comfortable to walk in all day.

For as common and as long as they've been around, bucks are still sure to make a smart statement. When you've heard that women notice guys who pay attention to the shoes they wear, this is the type of thing they're talking about. You're not dressed up, but you're not too casual either. You're intentional. Smart.

If you're looking for a pair of casual shoes that still look dressed up, pick up a pair of bucks, you won't be disappointed.

Pick them up on Amazon or Bostonian.