A Derby (UK: DAR-bee, US: DUR-bee) is a style of boot or shoe characterised by quarters (the upper part of the shoe where lace eyelets are placed) with shoelace eyelets that are sewn on top of the vamp. The construction of this method is known as "open lacing" compared to that of the Oxford.
In the 1850s, the Derby became a favourite sporting/hunting boot. By the end of the last century, the Derby's have found their way in the formal wear category of shoes.
“Some international banks in the UK would require their employees on wearing Oxfords,” says Tim Little, owner of heritage shoe brand Grenson. “However, the leather soled Derby with leather uppers have now been accepted in offices. A black pair with a plain toe with a single leather sole can be very formal.”
History states that the 14th Earl of Derby, who couldn’t fit comfortably into shoes that stitched shut (i.e. the Oxford) and subsequently got himself a shoe made with an open lacing system.
Some say that Prussian general Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher noticed that his soldiers were not able to get their boots off at the end of a day as their feet had swelled up from the activities of the day. Legend has it that he designed a version of shoes which had an opening under the ankles which created more space when they were unlaced. As such, the name stuck, the Derbies are also known as Bluchers in the US.
Type of Derbies for the formal look
The Classic Wholecut
This particular model is simple, plain toe shape, in Black or Brown leather. These pair of classic Derbies is comfortable to wear and easy to maintain as well. It pairs perfectly with a formal or office wear.
The Brogue
With distinct brogue decoration at the toe; these Derbies brings out an individual character in a person who knows how to coordinate a smart casual wardrobe to perk up.
The Cap Toe
Although, this is a unique kind of a Derby (see the images); these can pack unusual look to the wearer. The croc leather brings a certain suave to the person wearing it. It stands out and brings attention to the shoes in the very first instance of engagement.
You will find our Derby collection online on this link: https://bit.ly/2LIrj2N
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