One of the most important considerations when shopping for shoes is knowing the difference between an Oxford shoe and a Derby. These two distinct styles may look similar, but there are some distinct differences that are important to understand. In this article, we’ll explain the anatomy of each style, discuss how to incorporate them into your wardrobe, and provide some care tips for keeping them in great condition.
Anatomy of an Oxford Shoe
Oxfords are characterized by their lace-up design and closed lacing, meaning that the eyelets meet at the tip of the shoe. They typically have a rounded toe cap, quarter lining without any stitching, and a flat heel with no padding. They are considered dressier than Derbies and are usually worn with suits or semi-formal attire. They’re generally made of leather or suede, and can come in a variety of colors.
Anatomy of a Derby Shoe
Derby shoes are recognizable by their open lacing, where the eyelets are independently located on either side of the vamp. They also have a more elongated and square-shaped toe cap, as well as a padded heel. The quarters of Derby shoes are typically stitched with more elaborately-angled lines, giving them a unique look. They can be made of leather or suede and come in a wide range of colors.
Oxfords vs. Derbies: Aesthetic Considerations
In terms of style, Oxfords are generally considered to be more formal. This makes them ideal for office wear or for more-dressy occasions. Derby shoes, on the other hand, have an overall more casual aesthetic. Because of this, they can be used in a variety of contexts, such as when dressed up for a night out or down for a more relaxed look.
The Origins of Oxfords and Derbies
Oxfords have been around since the mid-19th century and initially became popular with soldiers in Britain. The shoes were inspired by the fact that soldiers wore thick boots and wanted something less bulky for civilian wear. Derbies have a slightly longer history, as they first appeared in the late 18th century, although at that time they were mostly worn by men in Scotland. Today, both styles are popular for both sexes in many different countries.
How to Incorporate Oxfords and Derbies Into Your Wardrobe
Deciding which style to wear depends on the occasion. For example, if you’re going to be attending a formal event or wearing a suit, Oxfords are generally your best bet. When attending a more casual event or dressing more casually, however, Derby shoes can be an excellent choice. No matter which style you go with, having both in your closet allows you more versatility in terms of how you dress.
The Benefits of Owning a Pair of Each Style
By owning both Oxfords and Derbies, you’ll get to experience the best of both worlds. Oxfords will offer you a sophisticated, stylish look for more formal occasions, while Derbies will provide you with a more relaxed and versatile look for days when you don’t need to dress up. Additionally, both styles are perfect for transitioning from season to season as they pair perfectly with tailored trousers, jeans, and chinos.
Care Tips for Oxfords and Derbies
Leather shoes require special care in order to keep them looking their best. Both Oxfords and Derbies can benefit from regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush to keep away dirt and dust. It’s also important to remember to use a waterproofing spray on your shoes before wearing in wet conditions to keep the leather looking great. For suede, use a special suede brush or cloth to apply a suede protectant spray to keep your shoes looking new.
Common Misconceptions About Oxfords and Derbies
There is often confusion between Oxfords and Derbies because they share many similarities. One common misconception is that they are the same style when actually they are distinctively different in various aspects such as lacing, toe shape, and overall look. Additionally, there is confusion between “brogues” and “Derby shoes”—the former being a style characterized by decorative perforations along the leather and the latter referring only to open lacing.
Styling Ideas for Wearing Oxfords or Derbies
When it comes to styling Oxfords or Derbies, the possibilities are nearly endless! For Oxfords, you can rock them with suits or semi-formal attire for a classic look. You can also dress them up with slacks or trousers and even wear them with dresses or skirts to add a bit of edge to your ensemble. With Derbies, you can pair them with trousers or jeans and a sports coat for a more relaxed but still polished look.
At the end of the day, deciding which style of shoe to choose depends on the occasion and your personal sense of style. Once you know the difference between Oxfords and Derbies, and understand how to style each one correctly, you will be able to create countless looks that suit your individual taste!
