Brogues: This Season's Hottest Footwear Trend

Brogue comes from the Gaelic bróg, which simply means shoe. Brogues originated in Scotland and Ireland, where they were a heavy walking shoe made from coarse, often untanned leather. They traditionally have a low heel and they lace up the front. They are decorated with holes punched into the leather. The term wingtips, much used in America, describes the W-shape of the toe cap. There are Oxford-style shoes, however, with a straight-edged toe cap and the decorative punches characteristic of brogues.

A wide range of men's and women's brogues, from casual shoes to wear with a pair of jeans and a cardigan, to more semi-formal shoes that look great with a tweed blazer and wool turtleneck. There are even tuxedo brogues and brogue sneakers today. They would be a great fit for teachers or others who work on their feet, and need comfort and support while still being able to meet a professional dress code.

Brogues were very popular in the United States from the 1930's well into the post-war era. They have been popularized by such greats as Katharine Hepburn, and Queen Elizabeth II has also been known to wear them when in residence at Balmoral Castle. Today, the comfort of a good pair of brogues is being touted as "this season's hottest footwear trend." Here are three different ways to get a brogue into your wardrobe for the coming season.

Manque (Steven by Steve Madden)

The Manque is a feminine version of the brogue, with a partially crocheted upper. The shoe has a 2.5 cm (1") heel, and a leather upper with crocheted details. It is particularly attractive in the pale "ice leather." Try it with a summer dress, or a pair of shorts or Capri pants. If you aren't the type to wear shoes without socks, wear a little pair of anklets to show off your legs. You're ready for a day at the park with the kids, a visit to the local farmer's market, or a casual lunch with friends.

Pretty Brogues (Boden)

Boden makes these shiny brogues in a choice of black or mulberry patent, or metallic silver leather. Both the upper and sole are leather, as is the inner lining. With a mid heel of 6.2 cm (2.4") and full padding, these shoes are made for comfort. In silver, this shoe is a great match for a slinky dress and a night out clubbing. The classic black would look equally slick with a pantsuit or a little black dress; it is flexible enough to transition from a day at the office to dinner and dancing. Mulberry would go wonderfully with a floral dress for a summer wedding or a garden party, but be daring and wear it to work. you will be sure to draw attention!

Brodie Leather Ankle Boots (J.Crew)

While this boot has neither the low heel nor the traditional winged tip of a brogue, it is worthy of mention. Available in black and sandstone, it will add 10 cm (4") to your height between the hidden platform and the stacked heel. The Italian leather upper is punched like a brogue, and the boot features a double monk strap. This is a chic, sophisticated boot for the woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. A bit more of an investment than some of the other footwear mentioned here, it is also versatile and timeless. With the proper care, it could easily take you from your twenties into your forties and fifties

Sources:

"Brogue shoes in spring 2010 fashion" Worthy Style

"Choosing brown leather brogues" Russell Smith (Globe and Mail)

"History of shoes: Wingtips!" Racheline M. (Zappos blog)

"How to wear brogues? (aka Oxford shoes)" Brigadeiro