Derby vs Oxford – What is the difference between Derby Shoe & Oxford Shoe?
What’s an Oxford Shoe?
While its history is up for debate, we know for certain that Oxford shoes gained their name from the city’s university students with whom they were all the rage in the 1800s. Since then, this traditional men’s style shoe has become synonymous with formal and business wear but is equally an ideal way to smarten up more casual attire such as chinos.
The main difference between an Oxford and a Derby lies in the laces. The former features a closed lacing system in which the quarters, the side tabs where the shoelace eyelets are punctured, are sewn under the front part of the shoe, known as the vamp. For those who are still not sure, what we are essentially referring to is the seam that runs directly below laces.
What’s a Derby Shoe?
Better suited to gentleman who has a high instep, the Derby is commonly thought to be an evolution, at least in terms of comfort, of the Oxford. Setting aside which came first, what we can all agree on is that Derby shoes have a more relaxed look giving the shoe added diversity both in terms of how they are worn – smart or casual – and how they are made, suede being as popular a choice as leather.
Unlike an Oxford, Derby shoe has open lacing meaning that quarters are stitched on top of the vamp – notice how there is no seam between the tongue and front of the shoe. Less bound in both appearance and fit, the looser tightened laces allow for more freedom of movement.
Is it the only difference between Oxford and Derby?
No, the way the lacing piece is stitched is not the only difference BUT all the other differences come from this characteristic that we have already explained.
- Oxford shoes are considered more formal than derby shoes. But anyway, both are good options for formal attires. They can both be worn with a suit but also with jeans. The level of formality will be determined by the colour, and the details you add. For example, when adding broguing to your oxfords you will make them more casual.
- Derby shoes allow people with wider or narrower feet to fit better as the lacing pieces allow more possibilities to find the proper tightening. When lacing derby shoes there is more margin to fasten the lacing loose of tight. Probably this is one of the reasons why derby shoes are a more standard and slightly more versatile choice.
- Derby shoes are more versatile. But don’t worry, we will show you ways to make your oxford shoes the most versatile way possible.
How to style your Oxford shoes
Now that you know what makes a shoe an oxford, it is important to know when to wear your oxford shoes.
- Black Oxford Shoes are classical suit shoes. If you have any doubt, black oxford shoes are the perfect shoes for your suit. But at the same time, they are less versatile. It will be more complicated to add it to more casual attires.
DANZIO Black Oxford Shoes (https://danzio.in/product/danzio-black-textured-leather-oxford-shoes-for-men/) - Brown oxford shoes are less formal but still a good choice for your suit outfits. Remember that then you will have to make your belt match the color of your shoes. And just another simple rule, the darker is your suit, the darker should also be your brown shoes. Try not to break that rule if you are not completely sure.
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How to style your Derby shoes
It is really easy styling your derby shoes so we will just share some examples of derby shoes outfits, so you get a better idea and some inspiration
- The versatility of the derby shoes allows them to be used on any business casual attire. The same as for the brown oxfords, please make the color of the belt and the color of the derby shoes match.
- But with derby shoes, there is not need of wearing a jacket. Derby shoes will be perfect in many jeans and chino attires. It is difficult to be wrong.
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When to Wear Which One? Derby vs oxford?
When to wear Derbies?
Derby’s are easily dressed up or down. If you are looking for a work or business casual shoe, derby shoes are the way to go. They will look great with any chino or jean look, and can also be worn with dress pants and a button down. They are perfect for the office, a night out, a friend’s birthday dinner, or any other celebration.
When to wear Oxfords?
Oxford shoes are the best for special occasions and formal events. They are the perfect match for a suit or tuxedo to wear at your next formal party, wedding, or black tie event. Wide oxford’s look less formal than slimmer oxford shoes. Obviously, get the one that will best fit you. They look best matched with your favorite dress pant, suit pant, or tuxedo pant.
Blog by DANZIO ®
12-09-2024
