Oxford shoes, also known as simply Oxfords, are a type of men’s formal shoes. Their characteristic closed lacing system distinguishes them from all other dress shoes.
They feature a sleek and polished design that makes them suitable for formal occasions and professional settings.
Oxfords typically come in black or brown colour, but modern variants may have tan, cognac, oxblood shades. Oxford shoes are an ace up one’s sleeve since their versatility pairs them across an array of dress codes including business suits, tuxedo, or separates and smart casual.
History Of Iconic Oxford Shoes
The Oxfords have a long and storied history that dates back to the 19th century. The shoes were originally known as “Oxonians,” named after the students of Oxford University who began wearing them. The popularity of Oxford shoes quickly spread beyond the campus University, and they became a staple in men’s formal wear.
By the turn of the 20th century, Oxford shoes were widely available in a range of styles and materials, including patent leather for evening wear.
What Are Oxfords
The defining characteristic of Oxford shoes is their closed lacing system, which means that the shoelace eyelets are sewn underneath the vamp, giving the shoe a sleek and streamlined appearance. This distinguishes them from most other types of dress shoes, such as Derby shoes or Blucher shoes, which have an open lacing system.
Oxfords Vs Derby Shoes
Oxford and Derby shoes are similar in many ways, but what is the difference? Here’s a quick comparison:
- The Oxford shoes display closed lacing, where the eyelets are stitched underneath the vamp (the front part of the shoe that covers the toes), creating a sleek, streamlined appearance.
- Oxfords are typically considered more formal than Derby shoes and are often worn with suits or dressier attire.
- On the other hand, the Derby shoes have open lacing, with the eyelets stitched on top of the vamp, allowing for more flexibility in fit and a more relaxed, casual look. Derby shoes are a better tie-up with business casual blazers, casual suits.
- Overall, both shoes are timeless shoe designs and ultimately what shoes to wear will hang on occasion, and type of clothes you will be wearing.
Black Oxfords Vs Brown
When you are faced with a tricky situation about what colour oxford shoes to choose between black and brown, you need to think meticulously.
Firstly, black oxfords are generally dressier and highly adaptable shoes, and they look strikingly appealing at formal events such as weddings, funerals, and job interviews. They also match remarkably with darker business suits such as charcoal, black and navy earning them a higher rank in men’s wardrobes.
On the other hand, brown oxford shoes complement occasions such as business casual or smart-casual events. A good choice for summer events and light colour suits.
Styling Approach To Oxford Shoes
You might be wondering what type of clothes and when you should wear oxford shoes. And the simple answer is you can wear them with nearly everything and everywhere.
But there is a way of doing so. You can’t just fetch anything out of the wardrobe and put it on with oxfords. This will miserably fail.
Therefore, take our counsel and pay attention to dos and don’ts of wearing oxford shoes.
Oxford Shoes With A Suit
There is no ideal way to finish a suit than wearing it with dress shoes. But it is a nagging question that baffles every mind as to what colour shoes to wear with different colour suits.
For the most part, black oxford shoes are quintessential item to wear with black and charcoal suits. Black is a protean colour, for it harmonizes with most suits. Black shoes also strike the right balance when worn on dressy evenings.
But not all men have a taste for black, and therefore they hunt for something spicy, more flavorful. And for them burgundy and cognac show up as classy tie-ups with suits. These colours tone in with Navy suit outfits. Dark brown and tan coordinate light grey and blue suits well.
Oxford Shoes With Jeans
Here comes the clash of extreme but opposite superpowers. The gentle oxford shoe and a pair of infamous denim jeans. The former hails from a noble background, and the latter emerges out of a rugged environment. But there is an approach to marrying them, as though they were made for each other.
Brown oxford shoes are right footwear to dress up the outfit. Black will be too much for this combination, or otherwise draw eyes for no reason.
Business Casual
Oxford shoes can certainly be a part of a business casual outfit. You should choose a pair in a neutral color such as black, brown, or tan. They should be polished and well-maintained to give off a professional appearance.
Pair your Oxford shoes with dress pants or chinos, a dress shirt or a polo shirt, and a blazer or a sweater.
- Choose a classic polo shirt in a solid color or a simple pattern. Avoid graphic tees with logos or designs, as they can clash with the dressier look of the oxford shoes.
- Team polo shirt with a pair of chino pants in a complementary color. Navy or khaki chinos are all-weather options.
- Choose a pair of oxford shoes in brown or black.
- Complete the look with a belt that matches the color of your shoes. This will help tie the outfit together and give it a cohesive look.
A Black Tie
Oxford shoes are an archetype of all-purpose shoes. And interestingly, they are the only footwear that can elevate a dinner suit. With regard to colour, black Oxfords would be an excellent choice.
When selecting your shoes, it’s important to consider the style and details of your dinner suit. A plain or patent leather Oxford shoe would work well with a classic dinner suit.
Oxford Shoes With Rollneck And Suit
Oxford shoes have mastered the dynamics of mens true style and therefore they fare smoothly with any mixture of clothing articles. For instance, a suit and a rollneck sweater. Here are a few tips to help you pull off this look:
Target the fit: Your suit and rollneck sweater should fit well, and your oxford shoes should be polished and in good condition. Make sure your trousers are the right length and break just above the top of your shoes.
Shoe Colour- If you’re wearing a navy suit, brown or burgundy will complement it nicely. For grey suit black or brown will flatter.
Accessorize wisely: A simple pocket square can add a touch of style, just in case.
