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Shoe Styles

Group shot of shoes

Take 11 shoe styles

We all have our favourite shoe styles, but how many different styles do you think there are? We have highlighted 11 styles where key characteristics have remained constant, but from these styles a huge number of variations have been developed as over centuries designers have been modifying these styles to create fresh new fashions. Which style are you wearing today?


Different shoe styles

Bar shoe

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Bar shoe

A bar shoe has one or more straps that extend over the top of the foot and fasten with a buckle or button.

Boot

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Boot

A boot covers the foot and extends above the ankle. It can have different fastenings such as lacing, buttons or zips.

Clog

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Clog

Clogs are made entirely from wood or have a wooden sole. There can be many different types of clog.

Court Shoe

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Court Shoe

A court shoe has a low-cut upper, no fastening and a medium to high heel.

Derby

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Derby

A Derby is a laced shoe or boot with an open front. The area around the eyelets is stitched on top of the front part of the shoe - known as the vamp.

Moccasin

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Moccasin

A moccasin has a soft sole and upper often made from one piece of leather. It was originally the traditional footwear of Native North America.

Monk

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Monk

A monk shoe has quarters which are the sides of the shoe upper which join the front part or vamp of the shoe.

Mule

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Mule

Mule A mule is a slip-on shoe without a back.

Oxford

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Oxford

An Oxford is a laced shoe with a closed front. The area around the eyelets is stitched under the front part of the shoe – known as the vamp.

Sandal

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Sandal

A sandal has a sole with straps, thongs or a toe knob to hold it on the foot. They are recognised as the earliest form of footwear.

Trainer

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Trainer

A trainer is a soft sports shoe often also worn as casual wear.

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