Style Guide
Discover the range of different styles of footwear we design and manufacture in our Northamptonshire based, UK factory and learn more about their history.
Oxford
The term 'Oxford' refers to any style of footwear with a 'closed' lacing system, where the facings are stitched flush with the rest of the shoe. Popularised at Oxford University in the 1800s, they represent the most formal end of footwear styles and encompass many variations including toecaps, brogues and boots. They offer a sleek and streamlined appearance and fit snugly across the instep.
Derby
The Derby, also known as a Gibson, is considered a little more casual than an Oxford or classic Brogue. That being said, the style is extremely versatile, with Derby's often being paired with suits, chinos or jeans, making them a multifunctional investment piece. They are described as having an open lacing system and, as such, are suitable to a wide foot or a foot with a high in-step. Our modern and sophisticated collection of Derby shoes and boots epitomise the Cheaney ethos - great design, quality materials and superior craftsmanship.
Wingtip Brogue
Otherwise known as 'full brogues', this traditional style is also one of the most versatile. The word 'brogue' refers to the punched detailing, which at one point was used to let water out of country shoes; these days, they are purely decorative and add a more casual edge. A pair of brogues do an excellent job at dressing up casual outfits and fitting in with more formal options, and should be a staple style in anyone's wardrobe.
Semi Brogue
Similar to wingtips but following the lines of a classic toecap, semi brogues are an excellent halfway-house between formal toecaps and decorative brogues. These can give a sleek look too formal outfits but are just as comfortable when dressing down, offering a similar level of versatility to other brogues.
Monk Shoes
Monk shoes, also known the monk strap, are shoes characterised by their lack of a lacing system and instead, are closed by a buckle and strap. Popularised in the mid-2000's and fast-becoming the preferred style of footwear amongst the fashion-forward, the monk shoe is widely accepted as less formal than an Oxford but more so than a Derby. With simple lines and contemporary style, the monk shoe traditionally features either a single or double strap fastening and depending on how minimal a design the wearer prefers, both iterations are equally appropriate for formal or casual wear.
Loafer
Due to their lace-less design and slip-on style, loafers are considered to be a simple but incredibly modern style of footwear. With American origins and links to early moccasin styles, loafers are traditionally finished in either leather or suede and have been developed over the years to include lined and unlined versions. Offering sartorial versatility that equally befits business or casual wear, loafers are a practical yet impeccably stylish shoe.
Balmoral Boot
The origin of the Balmoral boot goes back to the middle of the 19th century. The story says that Prince Albert, the husband of Queen Victoria, commissioned the royal shoemaker to make him a new pair of boots. These boots had to be comfortable for taking long walks on the Scottish grounds of the Balmoral castle, yet stylish enough to be worn indoors, at gatherings with the upper class. Today the style is as popular as ever and exudes style & sophistication and can be dressed up or down to suit your needs.
Wingcap Brogue Boot
The distinctive brogue detailing on these boots instantly sets them apart from other styles. Originally, the holes were punched in to let water drain out, but these days they are just for ornamentation on these highly decorated wing cap styles. They are perfectly suited to most smart casual occasions and can be paired with all sorts of clothing, making them a very versatile addition to your footwear collection.
Chukka Boot
Chukka, named after a period of play in a game of Polo, is the perfect choice for anyone looking to get even more value from their shoes. Its simplistic design gives it a formal edge over its brogue counterparts, yet the chukka boot's appeal lies in its ability to be worn with a large array of outfits. Reliable and versatile, chukka boots are suited to all seasons.
Chelsea Boot
Originally designed as a boot for horse-riding, the Chelsea boot really gained momentum through the Mod movement of the 60s and a band you may have heard of called 'The Beatles'. The Chelsea boot's sleek design has a unique silhouette and is an ideal travel boot due to its elasticated gussets and pull tabs.
Hiker Boot
Durable, practical and reliable, the hiker boot does exactly what it says on the box. Hard-wearing leathers combine with sturdy rubber soles, strong hook eyelets for lacing and a padded tongue and top-lining for extra support and comfort. Happiest in challenging terrain, it is also a solid choice as a city stomper.
Military Boot
Our Aviator boots are based on a pair of flight boots belonging to our founder's grandson. Its distinctive shape includes a generous toe box and a higher toe spring, resulting in a comfortable fit and minimal creasing. A real heritage item, these boots are a nod to our history and a modern classic.
Trainer
The ultimate in dress-down fashion, trainers are a hugely popular choice across all generations. Offering an extremely lightweight and flexible design due to its original use as a sports shoe, the trainer market today goes beyond gym wear and into its own section of fashion. A trainer made using natural leathers and suedes goes one step further to increase longevity and breathability, resulting in an even more comfortable experience.
Driving Shoes
Originally made in the 1960s to embrace the 'driving culture,' this versatile moccasin was designed to offer a more comfortable driving experience and to save the soles of stiffer, more inflexible formal shoes. From a practical perspective, driving shoes include studded rubber soles for traction and soft, breathable leathers for optimal comfort. Not just for driving, these are a beautifully lightweight and easygoing shoe for occasional wear.
Boat Shoes
Boat shoes are the ideal choice for warm weather and a laid-back weekend style. They are as effortless to wear as trainers but offer a more refined appearance that pairs well with a variety of outfits, from shorts and a polo shirt to chinos and a blazer. The durable yet lightweight soles, combined with suede uppers, ensure lasting comfort. With leather and textile linings, these shoes are soft enough to be worn comfortably without socks for that timeless summer Riviera look
Mary Jane Shoes
A Mary Jane shoe is highly adaptable, perfectly practical and oh so cute. They are versatile, timeless and can be dressed up or down. The trademark is the ‘bar’ or strap that goes over the top of the foot and traditionally fastened with a buckle.
Jodhpur Boots
With its roots in horse-riding, the modern jodhpur boot is a simplified and more accessible version of the original boots made in the 1920s. Its sleek design is accentuated with a buckle fastening that wraps around the ankle giving extra support.
For over 140 years, we've been crafting exceptional footwear in the heart of England's shoemaking county. Discover the skilled craftsmanship, traditional techniques and attention to detail that go into making every pair of Cheaney shoes.
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What's an Oxford and how does it differ to a Derby? How is a Brogue different to a semi brogue? Discover the range of different styles of footwear we design and manufacture in our Northamptonshire based, UK factory and learn more about their origins and history.
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