Discover the Evolution of Oxford Shoe Styles

The Oxford is menswear’s quiet icon: smart, restrained and endlessly adaptable. Tracing its roots to 19th-century Britain — where university students swapped high boots for lower, laced shoes — the Oxford quickly became the go-to for formal dressing. Today it still signals refinement, whether under a suit or paired with smarter casuals.

What defines an Oxford

The one unmistakable feature is closed lacing, where the eyelet tabs sit under the vamp for a neat throatline. That simple construction produces the sleek silhouette that marks the shoe as formal and refined.

• Closed lacing = formal silhouette

• Typically in calf or full-grain leather for a polished finish

Explore our Oxford collection for examples that honour that tradition.

Key variants (and when to wear them)

Over time, shoemakers introduced styles to suit different tastes:

• Cap-toe Oxford — classic businesswear.

• Wholecut Oxford — seamless, modern and very refined.

• Wingtip (brogue) Oxford — decorative yet still smart.

Each variant answers a wardrobe need, from boardroom authority to evening elegance. See more in our men’s leather shoes.

Modern updates

Contemporary Oxfords tweak proportions, materials and finishes — slimmer lasts, subtle patinas, or mixed textures — making them easier to wear with tailored casuals as well as suits. These updates keep the Oxford relevant without losing its core identity.

• Slimmer lasts for modern tailoring

• Suede and hand-patina options for relaxed formality

Craftsmanship & care

Construction matters: Goodyear-welted pairs offer resoling and longevity, while Blake-stitched models give a sleeker profile. To keep Oxfords looking their best, clean after wear, condition, use shoe trees and rotate pairs.

• Prefer welted or stitched construction for longevity

• Use our shoe-care essentials and match with a leather belt for a complete look

Final thought: The Oxford endures because it balances function and style — a shoe that honours tradition while adapting to modern life. A well-made Oxford from our collection is a wardrobe foundation that rewards care and wear.