My first ever set of road shoes were some basic velcro with one single ratchet strap thingy that were the "nylon" plastic/rubber sole. Seemed stiff enough yada yada yada.
I now use lace up Giro SLX's I got on closeout.
Are they going to score me a KOM or anything measurable? Not sure. Do they look ****** AF? Yup. Do they hold my foot in an amazing way? Yup. Do they literally weigh almost a full pound less for the pair. Yup. Any of that matter? No idea, but I like em.
For the white shoes........either be so pro that you never get chain stains on your shoes or calves..........or switch to a waxed road chain.