Samuel Windsor

Guess whose shoes?

You can tell alot about a man, just by looking at his feet. But while most of us buy the best we can within our budgets – the celebrity A list can wear whatever they like.

So take a look at our selection of celebrity mens shoes, and see if you can guess whose shoes they are.

(Hover your cursor over the images to reveal answers)

Smart oxfords

Could be anyone couldn’t it? A smart pair of Oxfords is the choice of shoe for all seasons. You can be sure that the guy who owns these is a consummate professional.

He’s slick, chic and his good looks cause many a female heart flutter. An ‘A list’ actor with a conscience, he cares deeply about human rights and is prepared to put his put his money where his mouth is. Last year, the actor was arrested for civil disobedience while protesting outside the Sudanese Embassy in Washington DC.

Still not sure who it is? Well should a perfect storm leave you battered and bruised, this guy is the one to patch you up.

Brown brogues

Slightly scruffy brown brogues are a stylish choice but it’s hard to imagine that this British actor’s alter ego would be seen dead in a pair – way too informal.

But if he did, you can be sure he’d shine them until you could see your face in them. The owner of these shoes is known as much for his killer good looks as his acting ability.

In taking on his career defining role, this man provoked controversy by not seeming to be either tall enough, nor dark enough. In fact he’s blonde.

Quirky chukkas

One of the biggest hollywood stars ever. This man who hails from Springfield, Missouri has been a heartthrob since his first big film part in 1991.

Since then he has gone on to wow cinema audiences across the globe with wide ranging roles that have seen him age backwards, get shot in the back and catch trout (but not at the same time). Now he’s a dedicated family man with a whole brood of children.

Still not sure who this sex symbol in chukka boots is? Ask Thelma, or Louise.

Low-key sneakers

Pushing sixty but looking good on it, no wonder the guy can still look good in a pair of sneakers. The African American actor is the son of a beauty parlour owner and a Pentecostal preacher.

His illustrious career has seen him play civil rights activist, Malcom X, South African anti apartheid legend, Steve Biko and the boxer, Rubin ‘Hurricane’ Carter. During the 1990s, the actor took roles in a string of highly successful thrillers, gaining a reputation as a ‘titan’ of the silver screen.

Need another clue? If the aircraft on which you were travelling were to come down – you’d want this guy at the controls.

Trendy two tone

Somewhat eccentric, as indeed his choice of two tone ‘spectator’ wingtip mens brogues demonstrates, the wearer is well known for playing ‘iconic loners’ – roles that very much suit his character.

The actor has collaborated with filmmaker Tim Burton on several occasions – at least two centering around food – both sweet and savoury. Something of a buccaneer, he has stolen many a woman’s heart.

Definitely a ‘cut’ above, should your hair or beard need a bit of a trim – don’t go anywhere near him.

All star converse

A pair of Converse All Stars for and all round star. This man can do anything.

From rapping, to comedy and serious character roles, there is no acting challenge he won’t take on.

Even President Obama has suggested that if a film were made about him, he’d want this man to take the part of President, “because of the ears”. If that doesn’t give the game away, how about the thing he has in common with Johnny Cash?

How many pairs of mens shoes should you own?

As a gender, it would be somewhat less than manly for us chaps to hoard shoes on the scale of the infamous Imelda Marcos.

But how many pairs of mens shoes should the self respecting gent own?

Dress shoes

When it comes to formal wear, there’s only one type of shoe that truly fits the bill.

For functions as diverse as weddings, funerals, work and that all important job interview – you need one pair of black Oxfords.

They are the quintessential business shoe. A well polished pair will take you a long way, while those without a pair will see opportunities walk on by. An essential addition to your wardrobe.

Casual shoes

There’s more scope for variety here and no reason why you shouldn’t own several pairs of casual shoes to suit a variety of occasions.

As a rule of thumb, you need a minimum of two pairs – one black, one brown.

You could simply wear your work shoes out and about – but wouldn’t you rather leave all thoughts of the office behind?

Here are some suggestions:

Derbys

Suitable for all but the most formal occasions – many people do indeed wear Derbys with a suit and tie, but we think they’re best for smart-casual use.

Think chinos, a crisply ironed shirt and brown Derbys. It’s a look that has withstood the test of time; elegant, understated and smart.

Brogues

For casual wear, brogues are a great choice. Go for black or brown, it really doesn’t matter. Both are smart enough to be worn for almost all occasions and look great with jeans too.

With a pair of brogues in your wardrobe, you’ll never be stuck for choice – a versatile addition to your footwear collection.

Penny Loafers

Originating in Norway, the loafer became popular in the United States in the 1950s.

The ‘penny’ refers to the practice among students of inserting a coin into the traditional diamond cut in the strip of leather running across the saddle of the shoe.

These shoes never took off in quite the same way in the UK as they did in the States, but now they’re well and truly in vogue.

A preppy look for the discerning man about town.

Deck Shoes

Men’s shoes with a definite purpose, these moccasin style favourites are a classic style statement.

Definitely for summer use, they should be worn with trainer socks or no socks. They look great at barbecues, trips to the beach, picnic lunches or balmy evenings out.

And of course if you happen to own or crew a yacht, they’re essential non-slip footwear for mariners.

Work boots

Heavy work in the garden or DIY in the house means protecting your toes and support your ankles. Toe cap work boots are the only way to go.

Go for a pair with thick rubber soles with a decent grip. If you want to go for a rugged look, start from the soles up with a sturdy pair of work boots.

So how many pairs of shoes is that?

By our reckoning, a gent needs a minimum of five pairs of shoes, not counting sports and hiking gear. Many of us have more.

They are after all rather nice and somewhat addictive…as Imelda knows.