A classic pair of dress shoes has unexpectedly become a talking point in Washington after Donald Trump reportedly began praising and gifting them to aides and political allies.
According to a report, the US President has developed a particular fondness for Florsheim leather Oxfords, a traditional business shoe that typically retails for $145 (£114). Trump has reportedly purchased multiple pairs and encouraged members of his circle to wear them.
'All the boys have them', a female White House official told the publication, referring to the growing number of staff members who had received the shoes.
The comment came during conversations about Trump's habit of handing out the footwear to associates. While the remark was partly humorous, another official joked that some staff felt reluctant not to wear them. 'It's hysterical because everybody's afraid not to wear them', the person said.
The attention has turned a relatively traditional shoe into an unexpected subject of political fashion discussion.
Why Florsheim Shoes Are Suddenly Getting Attention
Trump's enthusiasm for the shoes reportedly began after he criticised the footwear choices of some colleagues during a meeting. According to reports, he paused a conversation to complain about the 'f****g shoes' worn by Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Shortly afterwards, he began ordering pairs of Florsheim Oxfords and presenting them as gifts.
Several senior figures have reportedly received the shoes, including Vance, Rubio, and cabinet members. During a visit by reporters from The New York Times, Vance even lifted his foot to show the President the pair he was wearing—one that Trump had purchased for him.
Other officials said to have received the footwear include Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Trump has also reportedly gifted pairs to television host Sean Hannity and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham.
According to insiders, Trump sometimes keeps multiple boxes of the shoes on hand and occasionally adds a personalised message before giving them away.
Has the Attention Boosted Interest in the Brand?
While the story has drawn attention to the brand, it remains unclear whether Trump's endorsement has led to a measurable spike in sales.
Executives connected to Florsheim have indicated they were unaware of any large purchases tied directly to the President. Thomas Florsheim Jr., chief executive of the company that owns the brand, told The Wall Street Journal he had not been informed of any specific orders linked to Trump.
However, the publicity has sparked renewed curiosity about the label online, particularly among readers unfamiliar with its long history in men's footwear.
For many observers, the story serves as a reminder that even small personal preferences from public figures can attract unexpected attention to longstanding fashion brands.
The History of Florsheim: A Classic American Shoe Brand
Although the recent attention may seem sudden, Florsheim has been part of men's fashion for well over a century.
The company was founded in Chicago in 1892 by Milton S. Florsheim, who built the business around durable leather footwear designed for professional men.
Throughout much of the 20th century, the brand became synonymous with traditional business attire. Its stores were once common fixtures in shopping centres across the United States, particularly during the 1960s and 1970s, when formal office dress codes dominated corporate culture.
Florsheim shoes — especially Oxfords and loafers — became staples for bankers, lawyers, and office workers who needed reliable, polished footwear for daily wear. Although workplace fashion has relaxed significantly in recent decades, the brand has maintained its reputation for classic styles that align with traditional menswear.
Pricing and Why Businessmen Have Worn Them for Decades
Part of Florsheim's long-standing popularity comes from its accessible price point.
Most of the brand's dress shoes typically fall between $100 and $200 (£79–£158), making them more affordable than many luxury labels while still offering leather construction and formal design.
This combination has made them a practical choice for professionals who want polished footwear without investing in high-end designer shoes.
The Oxford style favoured by Trump reflects this tradition. Oxfords are widely considered one of the most formal types of men's shoes because of their closed-lace design and streamlined silhouette.
For decades, they have been paired with business suits and formal tailoring, making them a reliable option for professional environments such as government offices, finance, and law.
A Traditional Shoe in a More Casual Fashion Era
The attention surrounding Trump's favourite shoes also highlights how much workplace style has changed.
In many modern offices, trainers and hybrid dress shoes have become increasingly common as dress codes relax. Yet classic leather shoes like those produced by Florsheim remain relevant in settings where traditional business attire still plays a role.
Even as fashion trends evolve, certain staples — particularly well-made leather Oxfords — continue to signal formality and professionalism.
That longevity helps explain why a shoe brand founded more than 130 years ago can still find itself unexpectedly back in the spotlight.
