Lace-up women's derbies and brogues
Women’s derbies and brogues take inspiration from men's city shoes: lace-up, in smooth or patent leather, on a fine or thick rubber sole. They complement both office attire and jeans. Among the brands available: Kleman, Pédiconfort, Buffalo, Pikolinos, and Birkenstock.
Thick-soled derbies can be worn with wide trousers or a midi skirt.
Derby or oxford: what's the difference?
On the derby, the lacing sections are sewn over the upper: the lacing is open and adjusts well to wider feet. On the oxford, they are sewn underneath: the lacing is closed, making the shoe slimmer and more formal.
Which women's derbies to choose?
Black or brown smooth leather women's derbies are the most versatile. Patent leather is dressier; the thick rubber sole gives a contemporary look and grips well on wet ground. Comfort models have a cushioned sole for walking.
How to wear derbies?
With a straight or cigarette women’s trouser cut to the ankle, they create a smart city outfit. Paired with a pleated skirt and thin socks, they give a retro vibe. A derby with a thick sole balances out a wide leg trouser.
How to choose the right size?
The lacing allows for adjustment, but the length should be just right: about a centimetre in front of the toes. For wider feet, the derby, with open lacing, is more comfortable than the oxford.
How to care for leather derbies?
Dust them off, nourish the leather with a suitable cream, then polish. Insert shoe trees after each wear to maintain their shape and absorb moisture.
Which derby brands to choose?
These city shoe brands share the spotlight.
- Kleman, a French brand, assembles leather derbies with rubber soles in the Pays de la Loire.
- Comfort shoes and slippers are the specialty of Pédiconfort, a French brand that has earned the AFNOR label “Tested and approved by seniors.”
- Platform soles have built Buffalo’s reputation, even on their derbies.
- Pikolinos, a Spanish brand from Elche, processes leather in its own tannery.
- Birkenstock, a German brand known for anatomical soles, doesn’t just focus on sandals: it also offers derbies.
What other flat shoes are there?
Looking for more flat shoes? Women’s loafers and ballet flats have their own pages; the whole family is on the flat shoes page.
When to find derbies at a reduced price?
Derbies are worn from autumn to spring, with jeans or tailored trousers. For sale derbies, Black Friday and winter sales fall right in season, while summer sales are out of season.
Discounted pairs from November are on the Black Friday page, those from the sales are on the women’s shoe sale page, and the rest are on the Promotions page. Fast delivery and best price guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
How to lace derbies?
A straight, parallel lacing gives a neat look; a criss-cross lacing holds the foot better. Don’t tighten the instep too much.
Derbies with socks: which ones?
Fine socks that match the trousers to elongate the leg, or contrasting ones for a stylish effect. Ribbed socks add a retro touch.
How to soften new derbies?
Wear them at home for a few hours with thick socks. A nourishing cream softens the leather.
Patent derbies: how to care for them?
Wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth and polish with a special patent product. Store them separately: patent leather marks when in contact.
Can you wear derbies with a dress?
Yes, with a midi dress or a shirt dress, and with thin socks or tights. The masculine-feminine contrast creates the look.
