Unfortunately, the provided reference is just a brief transcript indicating that the video discusses different ways to lace dress shoes but doesn't detail how to do it. Therefore, I will provide general instructions on how to lace dress shoes using common methods. These are the most frequent and stylish ways.
Common Lacing Methods for Dress Shoes
There are two primary methods for lacing dress shoes, each offering a slightly different aesthetic and functionality:
- Criss-Cross Lacing (or Over Under Lacing): This is the most common and straightforward method.
- Straight Bar Lacing (or European Lacing): This method creates a clean, horizontal look.
1. Criss-Cross Lacing
This method is secure and easy to execute.
- Start: Thread the lace through the bottom two eyelets, going under and pulling the lace upwards from the inside. Make sure both ends are even.
- Cross: Take the left lace end and thread it over the tongue and through the eyelet on the right side, one row up.
- Repeat: Repeat the process with the right lace end, threading it over the tongue and through the eyelet on the left side, one row up.
- Continue: Continue criss-crossing the laces up the shoe until you reach the top eyelets.
- Tie: Tie the laces in a knot or bow at the top.
2. Straight Bar Lacing
This method offers a clean and formal appearance.
- Start: Thread one end of the lace through the bottom left eyelet from the outside of the shoe. Pull it across and thread it through the bottom right eyelet, also from the outside. This creates a horizontal bar.
- Up and Inside: Take the end of the lace that came out of the right bottom eyelet and thread it up the inside of the shoe to the next eyelet on the same (right) side.
- Across and Outside: Thread the same lace across to the opposite (left) eyelet on the same row, going from the outside to the inside, creating another horizontal bar.
- Up and Inside (Opposite Side): Now, take the lace end that started on the left and pass it up the inside of the shoe to the next available eyelet on the left side.
- Repeat: Repeat steps 3 and 4, always keeping the bars horizontal. Notice that one side involves going up two eyelets at a time to maintain the pattern.
- Tie: Tie the laces in a knot or bow at the top.
Tips for Lacing Dress Shoes
- Even Length: Ensure both ends of the lace are equal in length before you begin, especially with straight bar lacing.
- Tightness: Don't lace too tightly, as this can damage the shoes and be uncomfortable.
- Lace Material: Choose laces that complement the shoe's color and material. Waxed cotton laces are a classic choice for dress shoes.
- Adjust: After lacing, wear the shoes and adjust the laces as needed for comfort.
- Experiment: Try different lacing styles to see which one you prefer and which best suits your shoe.
