If you're new to men's artisanal shoes, it's important to know the difference between two of the most common style of men's shoes, the oxford vs the derby.
Here at Norman Vilalta, we put together a short little guide for you to better understand the differences between an oxford and derby shoe:
Above is an example of an oxford shoe, our Mario Cap Toe Oxford.
An oxford and a derby shoe are both types of formal footwear that are commonly worn with suits and formal attire. However, there are some key differences between the two styles of shoes that you should understand:
1. Lacing
One of the main differences between oxfords and derbys is the way the laces are closed.
Oxfords have a closed lacing system, which means the facings, the section of the shoe that have the laces are sewn under the vamp (the front part of the shoe that covers the top of the foot). This creates a sleek, streamlined appearance.
In contrast, derbys have an open lacing system, which means the facings are sewn on top of the vamp. This allows you to open up the facings of the shoe wider and provides more flexibility for those with a high-arch or wide feet.
This detail of the derby also gives the shoes a more relaxed, less formal look.
Note how in the oxford shoe above, the facings of the oxford, the area of the shoe where the laces are located, is covered by a leather piece at the vamp, which restricts movement of the lacing area.
On the derbyin the photo above, the area with the lacings is in a section of the shoe that can be opened up since the leather pieces are sewn on top of the vamp.
2. Toe shape
Another difference between oxfords and derbys is the shape of the toe. Oxfords often have a more pointed, chiseled toe, which gives them a more formal, sophisticated appearance.
Derbys on the other hand often have a more rounded toe, which gives them a more casual, laid-back appearance.
3.Formality
Overall, oxfords are considered more formal than derbys. They are typically worn with formal attire, such as suits, tuxedos, and formal dresses.
Above is an example of our Wholecut Oxford, a design that is one of our more formal of shoes with an elegantly elongated vamp and unique side lacing.
Derbys, on the other hand, are considered less formal and are typically worn with more casual attire, such as khakis and sports jackets.
4. Occasions
Oxfords are typically worn to formal events, such as weddings, black-tie affairs, and formal business meetings.
For those who wear suits in the office, the Oxford is the more typical choice since it is a more traditional business look.
Derbys are more versatile and can be worn to a wider range of occasions, including casual business meetings and more relaxed social events.
They are the perfect go-to alternative to sneakers and can be worn comfortably on a weekend trip, walk through the city or on a special date.
Above is an example of a derby shoe, our Coltrane Wingtip Derby.
In summary, oxfords and derbys are both formal shoes, but they differ in their lacing systems, toe shapes, and overall formality.
Oxfords are sleeker and more formal, while derbys are more relaxed and casual.
To learn more about men's shoes and our high-quality Goodyear-welted shoes, read more articles from our blog on Understanding Norman Vilalta Shoes.
