If you could only wear one shoe for the rest of your life, a derby wouldn’t be the worst choice. A pair of derby shoes would be a better choice. Working equally well for work, the weekend or a wedding, derby shoes can be dressed up and down to fit nearly every occasion. What separates a derby from an oxford is the open laces, which can feel a little more casual than the closed laces of an oxford. If you do plan to own a pair of both, your best bet is a black oxford, which means you should opt for a brown derby, so that your two-shoe-wardrobe runs the gamut.
A brown derby is one of the most versatile shoes a man can have in his closet.
MONDAY
Shirt: Charles Tyrwhitt, $110 | Suit: Suit Supply, $499 | Watch: Nixon, $125
Belt: Maximum Henry, $95 | Glasses: Warby Parker, $95
Tie: The Tie Bar, $19 | Pocket Square: Jack Spade, $22
Wear it well: Keep it classic for work by pairing your derbies with a navy suit.
TUESDAY
Shirt: River Island, $40 | Jacket: Vanquish, $275 | Pants: Reiss, $210
Socks: Happy Socks, $20 | Cologne: Doc Elliot, $18 | Belt: Anderson’s, $160
Wear it well: A fun jacket over your work clothes can make any outfit ready for a night out.
WEDNESDAY
Tee: Topman, $35 | Pants: Obey, $69 | Jacket: Publish, $168
Watch: Jack Mason, $185 | Hat: Brixton, $59
Wear it well: Elevate your tee and jeans with a sleek shoe and soft yet structured jacket.
THURSDAY
Shirt: Everlane, $55 | Chinos: J.Crew, $75 | Glasses: Steven Alan, $205
Bag: Will Leather Goods, $395 | Belt: Whistles, $45
Wear it well: Go business casual with colorful chinos and a tailored denim shirt.
FRIDAY
Short Sleeve Shirt: AMBSN, $32 | Jeans: Norman Porter, $250
Jacket: Carhartt WIP, $104 | Sunglasses: RETROSUPERFUTURE, $168
Wallet: First Settlement Goods, $148
Wear it well: Roll up your jeans and skip the socks for a rakish look.
TELL ME:
WHERE DO YOU WEAR YOUR DERBY SHOES?
Want to see more ways to wear your favorite pieces for summer? We show you how to style the chambray shirt, colorful chino and souvenir jacket, 5 ways.
