Definition of Brogue Shoe The brogue shoe is a style of low-heeled shoe or boot traditionally characterized by multiple-piece, sturdy leather uppers with decorative perforations and serration along the pieces' visible edges. A timeless handmade shoe, the English brogue is a classic style worn throughout the years since originating in Ireland and Scotland. The brogue was made as an outdoor walking shoe from untanned hide and the hole punching allowed for water to drain from the shoes when worn in wet terrains such as a bog. Over its time the brogue has been seen as a Country shoe staple and the brogue punching became decorative perforation but modern interpretations have meant the classic brogue is worn less in the boglands and more in the office or at a wedding. Common Misconceptions Many people confuse the term Oxford or Derby with a brogue. The term oxford is characterized by its lacing system or to be specific, by the shoelace eyelets that are attached under the vamp. This is called 'closed lacing.' On the other hand, a derby has 'open lacing' where the eyelets are attached to the top of the vamp. Types Of Brogues - 1. Wingtip Wingtip brogue style is a modification of oxford shoes with brogue design. Oxford shoes are given a little sharp look by making the toe cap pointed and rest is quite similar. Perforations are usually on the toe area. 2. Semi Semi brogue is not different from Wingtip when it comes to the overall structure but the design is different. Those men, who have deep knowledge and interest in footwear, will find it different from Wingtip. For those, who just want to wear a nice pair of shoes with brogue design, semi and wingtip are the same. Semi Brogue shoes have perforations only on the seams of the toe cap, heel and the vamp.