Men's shoes can be categorized by how they are closed. These can be defined as follows on Leather-Boots.net:

• Balmorals - the vamp has a V-shaped slit to which the laces are attached; also known as "closed lacing." In England, the balmoral is known as the Oxford. The word "Oxford" is used by American clothing companies to market shoes that are not Oxfords, such as rubber-sole bluchers.
• Blüchers - the laces are tied to two pieces of leather independently attached to the vamp; also known as "open lacing." In England, the Blucher is known as the Derby shoe.
• Monk-straps - a buckle and strap instead of lacing

High-throated pumps with curved heels and side pieces that tied or buckled elaborately at the throat. As dresses became less structured and suits less intricate, shoes did too. Heels dropped rapidly through the 1790s and by 1800 were very small indeed, while material was pared away to a minimum from the uppers. Men's shoes also became basic black quite early in the century - almost no other color is seen after 1800. Hence much more to learn on Leather-Boots.net. Visit us!