How to Style Derby Shoes?

Would you like to wear derby shoes but are wondering what to wear them with? How can you match them with your everyday style?

I'll help you.

As a fan of bohemian fashion, I really love derbies, which add a touch of elegance to a boho look while remaining very comfortable to wear and suitable for an active lifestyle.

That’s why today I’m sharing a comprehensive guide dedicated to these stylish and feminine shoes, so you can incorporate them into your wardrobe too!

Derby shoes can be worn daily or for special occasions, and they’re ideal if you’re looking for comfortable and easy-to-match footwear. If you’re slim and/or petite, a wedge style will be perfect to enhance your figure. You can pair your derby shoes with tailored trousers or leather pants for a chic and sexy look, or with jeans or light fabric cropped trousers for a more casual vibe. They also look great with a bohemian-style dress or flared skirt. Lastly, if you're showing off your legs, opt for thin socks that match your shoes.

Want to know more details? Keep reading to find out:

• When to wear derbies,
• Which ones to choose based on your body shape,
• What style, colour, and material to select for your derbies,
• What pants, skirts, or dresses to pair with your derbies,
• Plus loads of outfit ideas to inspire you!

What are Derbies?

These flats or low-heeled shoes are fastened with laces or buckles. They do not extend over the ankles, so they remain quite low. They are usually made of leather and have their origins in another type of shoe, the brogues. However, they are generally easier to put on and take off than the latter.

These are essentially men's shoes that have been reimagined for women, featuring a more refined design and an emphasis on the details and quality of the materials.

When chosen in the right size and with enough width, derbies are shoes that can be incredibly practical, as they are both stylish and comfortable. They complement a feminine look as well as an androgynous style and can be worn both every day and for special occasions.

How to Choose the Right Derby Shoes?

Thinking about giving derby shoes a go but haven't taken the plunge yet? I'm sharing a few simple tips to help you find the perfect pair that will complement your style!

Can I wear Derby shoes if I'm petite? Or curvy?

There’s often a belief that derby shoes are only for tall, athletic women. However, that’s not the case: you just need to find the right style that suits your body shape. If you're petite, curvy, or both, I recommend choosing a wedge model, which, in addition to being ultra-fashionable, will enhance your figure by elongating your legs.

What colour of Derby shoes should you wear?

Derbies come in a variety of colours, although the most popular are black and brown. These classic shades are perfect for a chic and elegant look. Choose black if you have other elements in that colour in your outfit to create a colour match. The same goes for brown, which lends a more bohemian style. If your outfit is light, consider beige or white derbies.

However, if you'd like to venture off the beaten track a bit, you can definitely choose to:

• A colour that contrasts with the rest of your outfit: think white brogues with a black suit, for example,
• A vibrant colour (red, teal, hot pink…) that you can wear to match a small element of your outfit in the same shade or go for a total look for a high-fashion effect!
• Metallic brogues, to brighten up your outfit and give it an unmatched style!

Which Model to Choose?

While there are other materials available, most derbies are made from leather or suede. I recommend choosing these easy-to-care-for and durable materials in any case.

The style you choose will depend on the clothes you want to wear with your derby shoes:

👗 Whether you're wearing a dress or a skirt, it's best to go for round or slightly rounded shoes, as they create a feminine and stylish look.

👖 With tailored trousers, I recommend wearing semi-pointed or pointed derby shoes to achieve an ambitious style and a couture look.

What Socks to Wear with Derby Shoes?

This question may seem a bit odd, but it's important to consider it. In fact, there are two ways to wear derbies if your legs are on display:

• by hiding your socks and opting for thinner ankle socks instead,
• by leaving your socks visible to create a vintage and unique look.

If you choose the second option, go for thin socks that don't rise too high on your legs. Lighter colours are generally more stylish, and the best options are socks made from crochet or lace. Slightly scrunch your socks at the bottom of your leg to create a nice overall look.

What trousers to wear with derbies?

Are you thinking of pairing your derby shoes with trousers? Let’s explore what might suit you based on your style and preferences.

A tailored pair of trousers

Worn with a blazer and tailored trousers, derby shoes are perfect for completing a very elegant look. Slightly androgynous while still remaining feminine and chic, this type of outfit is ideal for standing out at a special occasion, showcasing your ambition and motivation during a job interview, or simply looking ultra-classy for a night out with friends.

👉 For a high-fashion look, dare to wear a matching suit with patterns and a pair of glossy black derby shoes to complete the outfit perfectly!

A leather trouser

With leather pants, a white blouse or shirt, and some derby shoes, you'll achieve a contemporary and stylish look. This ensemble is perfect for going out, a romantic date, or even for everyday wear if you want to showcase your passion for fashion.

👉 I recommend opting for matte shoes to create a contrast with the shiny finish of these types of pants.

A pair of jeans

Would you describe your style as casual chic? If so, your derbies will pair perfectly with slim or boyfriend jeans. The key is to ensure that the trousers are tapered at the ankle, creating an optical effect that highlights your legs.

👉 As a result, avoid flared jeans or bell-bottoms, as they clash too much with the stylish look of derbies and wouldn’t do them justice.

3/4 Trousers

If the weather's nice, why not pair your derbies with a lighter outfit? A lovely plain or classically patterned cropped pant will be perfect to complement them. This way, you'll have a great outfit for heading to work, university, or just strolling around the city in the beautiful season!

What skirt to wear with derby shoes?

If you prefer wearing a skirt with your derbies, here are some outfit ideas that might interest you!

A short skater skirt

For an ultra-cute and very feminine look, this is the option you should go for! If it's a bit chilly, don't hesitate to wear tights, which will only enhance the appeal of your derbies. This look is both adorable and comfortable, making it perfect for heading to uni, spending a day with friends, or giving yourself the best chance on a first date!

A pleated long skirt

Very trendy in recent years, the pleated maxi skirt is an outfit that is both chic and versatile. It's incredibly easy to wear and flatters most body shapes. However, make sure your skirt falls below your knees and not above your ankle boots, as this could make you look a bit shorter!

Dare to wear a mini short!

Looking for a lightweight and dynamic outfit? One that lets you move freely? You can definitely pair derbies with a mini skirt to create a sexy ensemble that showcases your legs! The derbies add a touch of chic to the skirt, making it dressy:

• a going-out outfit, featuring black leather or fabric shorts and tights,
• a summer outfit, with plain or patterned fabric shorts.

How to Wear a Dress with Derby Shoes?

Just like a skirt, it's definitely possible to pair a dress with derby shoes. For instance, you could wear a skater dress, whether it's short or long, which, similar to a flared skirt, will beautifully accentuate your legs.

If you prefer a bohemian chic look, feel free to choose a midi dress that falls below the knee in lace or with beautiful embroidery. This will give you a very feminine style, perfect for lovely summer days.

I hope this article has inspired you to wear derby shoes, no matter the occasion or your body shape! This stylish pair of shoes is sure to become a staple in your wardrobe! 😉

And if you're on the hunt for a stylish and feminine dress or clothes to pair with your derbies (or any other shoes!), check out our chic bohemian clothing collections! You'll find trendy dresses and skirts designed to enhance your silhouette and boost your confidence!

Long Bohemian Dress