There are two very different versions of lace-up shoes: Oxford shoes and Derby shoes. Oxford shoes were made popular by students at Oxford University at the beginning of the 19th century and today are the most formal version of lace-up shoes. More informal versions are Derby shoes, also known as Bluchers, a low-top version of a Prussian army boot. The main difference between the different kinds of lace-up shoes is that on Oxford shoes the lacing section is sewn closed and the eyelet facings are stitched underneath the vamp, while in Derby shoes the laces pass through holes in flaps on the vamp, meaning the shoe can be laced up tighter or more loosely. Lace-up shoes are part of a long tradition of craftsmanship, with brands such as Santoni producing leather shoes that are handmade in Italy. Discover our extensive selection of shoes, with soles made from different materials and with different designs and finishes, all from the best brands such as Church's, Santoni and Tod's.