Simply put, Oxford shoes are lace-up shoes that are characterized by closed lacing. Unlike most other shoes and men's clothing items, the Oxford shoe has one key feature: the lacing system. Sometimes people use the term oxford to mean any dressy lace-up shoe, even open-laced ones, but we won't use the term that way in this post.
What makes Oxford shoes so attractive?
First of all, it may seem obvious, but an oxford is a shoe with laces and not a slip-on or Chelsea boot. Secondly, an Oxford shoe has a closed lace system versus the open system of a Derby shoe. The Oxford shoes have eyelets that are attached to the shaft but are hidden by the opening of the shoe. Traditionally, low shoes are men's shoes, but they have changedto different formsdeveloped, including sneakers and even women's shoes. Any shoe that incorporates the Oxford's closed lacing can be classified as such.
History of the shoe classic
The Oxfords originated in Scotland and Ireland and were then called Balmoral, after the castle of the same name. The boot had dominated men's shoes for several centuries until the Oxonian, a half-boot, emerged at the University of Oxford. Oxfords were a rebellious response to the stiff, uncomfortable men's boots popular at the time. The shoes had slits on the sides which made them more comfortable to wear during trekking compared to boots.
Over time, the side vents were replaced by laces, which eventually moved to the instep. The heel and opening have been lowered to expose the ankle, and Oxford shoes are now most common as loafers. Such models were a preferred style of men's shoes, while boots were only suitable for outdoor activities such as riding. The low shoes are perfect for everyday life and have been a sign of style and elegance ever since.
What types are there?
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As mentioned above, these models are characterized by closed lacing, a low heel and a cut that exposes the ankles. Every Oxford shoe contains these three features, and there are a few different styles. The simple shoe has no complicated piecing or perforating. Its simplicity makes it a good choice for a formal evening shoe, as well as for casual work wear. However, a simple Oxford with black patent leather is more suitable for official occasions and events.
Some plain oxford shoes are brown or have other shades of polished leather, but you'll almost always find these in black. The brogue model with the perforated toe cap is one of the established styles and features an additional piece of leather on the toe cap, which can also have very simple perforations.
Variants with toe caps are also suitable for everyday office wear, but not enough for a formal event. Such men's low shoes are often referred to as Oxford shoes and have perforated toe flaps that spread out to the sides of the shoe like wings. Despite the subtleties of the design, brogues are considered less casual than other models.
How to wear Oxford shoes
So the leather shoes are good for work, and the right pair of oxfords can be worn from day to night for evenings and dressy occasions. The Captoe Oxford shoe strikes the perfect balance. Although this is not considered a formal shoe, with the right color you can wear it to any event. The material also adds to the versatility and the oxford shoes can be made of leather, canvas and suede. Many shoemakers and manufacturers make the soles of oxfords a bright color to add a unique touch.
Men's shoes are a growing trend in women's fashion, and Oxford shoes are a prime example. They are comfortable and lendingany outfit flair. Their functionality also makes them great shoes to wear to work, especially if you need to do some walking on the commute. They go with any other outfit as well as other shoes.
Elegant models for women
If you like heels, you can try the Oxford ankle boots that look quite stylish. The heel is usually stacked, sturdy and also appears as a wedge. Along with pointe flats and slipper-inspired flats, Oxford flats are one of the hottest trends in women's shoes. Even if oxfords aren't particularly "in," they're still a fashionable choice for women who want to add an elegant feel to their outfit without having to wear high heels.
The only problem is that many women aren't sure what to wear with flats. The confusion comes because Oxford shoes are so different from most other women's shoes that many are simply not convinced that they can incorporate them into their wardrobe. While there are a few things that don't work well with menswear-inspired lace-up shoes, there are plenty of looks that work with them.
Combination with jeans
Besides the obvious choice, jeans are also the easiest item of clothing to pair with flat Oxford shoes. Slim, flared, cropped, rolled, and even straight-leg jeans can keep up with the masculinity of Oxford shoes. You'll even benefit from being paired with them, as the snug shape of most oxfords will help elevate jeans for women.
Whether you're going with classic blue or some type of colored denim, you have several options to top the whole outfit. To add a bit of femininity to the combination, you could wear a loose blouse or a shimmery tank. For a cute casual look, try a simple V-neck t-shirt, and for a clean and classic outfit, choose a blazer or a button-down shirt.
Combine with casual and suit trousers
Suit pants and oxford shoes go perfectly together, and the combination is probably the first thing most women think of when they look at a pair of flat loafers. The thing is, you don't just have to think along traditional lines by pairing these with simple black pants or a basic business suit.
Another way to create a dynamic look with women's trousers and oxford shoes is to use patterns and textures to create a striking contrast between the two. You could pair striped pants or patterned leggings with two-tone or metallic oxfords. Wearing suede oxfords paired with tweed trousers will really show that your choice has been made with confidence.
Wear dresses and skirts with Oxford shoes
If you're feeling a little adventurous or happen to be looking for a way to really change up your style, then consider wearing a dress or skirt. You will be best served with a skirt or dress that also offers contrast. Since Oxford shoes are naturally masculine, it's easiest to wear that contrast with something overtly feminine.
Now, by feminine doesn't necessarily mean floral prints and ruffles, although those things could definitely work. What we mean by that is that you're adding something that makes them look out of the equation. For example, a tailored skirt with oxfords would be fine as long as the skirt isn't too long. If it falls too far below the knees, it could end up looking like you're wearing some sort of conservative suit or retro uniform.
