Serious business

Most men started their tryst with formal shoes with the black laceups when they went to school. But sometimes, the simple black (or brown) formal shoe also comes in various styles, shapes and designs. The distinctions very often are so subtle that you have to look closely to appreciate them. Here’s de-mystifying the five main styles of formal shoes.

Monk-straps: Also known as Monks, as buckles (or one buckle) are used to fasten it instead of laces.
Monk-straps from Manzoni
Price: Rs 21,000
Available at: Manzoni stores around the country

Oxfords (US: Balmorals): These are formal shoes with enclosed lacing with their origins in the British Isles. They come in plain or captoe styles.
Oxfords from Zegna
Price: Rs 34,700
Available at: Ermenegildo Zegna store at Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai

Brogues (US: Wingtips): Formal shoes with the distinctive design which is called Broguing.
Brogues from Manzoni
Price: Rs 6,000
Available at: Manzoni stores around the country

Derbys (US: Bluchers): These are the same as Oxfords, but with open lacing. They, too, come in plains and captoes, sometimes with Broguing.
Derbys from Homme
Price: Rs 4,090
Available at: Retailers like Shoe Tree around the country

Slip-ons: These do away completely with any form of fastening.
Just slip ‘em on. Slip-ons from Zegna
Price: Rs 34,700
Available at: Ermenegildo Zegna store at Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai