Wingtip shoes are also known as brogues, they are shoes which have a pointed toe cap which extends from both sides of the shoe, giving the impression of wings. When the shoe is viewed from the top it looks as if the bird has fully extended wings. Although wingtip safety shoes were originally created and designed for men, there are many designs today which are suitable for use by women.
The history of the wingtip shoe goes back to Ireland and Scotland, the original purpose of the design was to produce a shoe which was durable, long lasting and was suitable for use outdoors. The original wingtips were not considered to be dress shoes, these wingtip safety shoes were strictly utilitarian in their design and construction.
Today, wingtips are made for both dress and working, they both carry the distinctive perforations which are associated with being decorative. The original purpose of the perforated holes was not decorative, the holes were used to drain off water if the wearer stepped in a puddle which was often the case as in Ireland and Scotland there are numerous bogs and plenty of rain.
Over the years, these shoes have evolved into sturdy but fashionable shoes. When the design is employed as a work boot, the shoe still provides the comfort and durability which has always been associated with them. Today, these shoes still employ the perforations but they are no longer used for their intended use as a drain, today they are used as a fashionable way to accentuate the wings and their distinctive design. To add to their style, the soles are often serrated which tends to add to the drama of their design.
Although many wingtips, especially wingtip safety shoes are one solid color, those which are used as a dress shoe are often two-tone using contrasting leather. The upper portion of the shoe is often a very different color than the toe and heel, a popular combination is brown and white although the color contrast can be much more subtle, often two shades of brown. Many two toned shoes also use a contrasting stitch color on the toe cap which makes the overall concept and craftsmanship more apparent.
Although wingtip shoes have changed since their inception, they are still a very popular style for both work and dress.
Wingtip safety shoes from Hytest feature full grain leather uppers and a soft pigskin lining giving superb comfort and lasting durability. Theses shoes are available online from Michigan Industrial Shoe.
