Oxford, Derby, Loafer or Monkstrap? A Practical Guide to Men's Dress S
By Viet Anh Nguyen on Sep 26, 2026
The right dress shoe depends on where you wear it, how formal you want to look and how much flexibility you need. Oxford, Derby, Loafer and Monkstrap shoes each have a distinct character.
Oxford shoes
Oxford shoes have a close-laced design and a clean, formal profile. They work well with suits, business tailoring and important occasions. A black captoe Oxford is one of the most versatile formal shoes, while a patina or brogued Oxford brings more personality.
Explore Colin Martin Oxford shoes for classic and expressive options.
Derby shoes
Derby shoes use an open-laced construction, giving the upper more room around the instep. They are a practical choice for customers who want a dress shoe that can move between work, smart casual clothing and everyday wear.
See our Derby shoes for balanced shapes and hand-finished colour.
Loafers
Loafers are easy to slip on and especially useful in warm climates or relaxed tailoring. Penny, tassel, Belgian and horsebit styles can look refined with trousers, chinos, denim or linen. The fit should feel secure around the heel without excessive pressure across the instep.
Browse Loafers made to order in Hanoi.
Monkstrap shoes
Monkstrap shoes replace laces with one or two buckles. They offer the structure of a dress shoe with a stronger visual identity. A simple single monkstrap can be understated, while a double monkstrap creates a more distinctive look.
Explore Monkstrap shoes in black, brown, burgundy and patina finishes.
How to choose your pair
Think about your wardrobe, climate, daily walking and the level of formality you need. Construction also matters: Blake stitched shoes feel light and flexible, while Goodyear welted shoes provide a more substantial structure.
Choose your usual US men’s size and check our size guide for EU, UK, centimetre and inch conversions. Foot measurement is optional. Colin Martin makes every pair to order in Hanoi and ships worldwide.
