Oxford footwear, with its stylish, sophisticated design, symbolizes dress shoes. People have worn different types of Oxford shoes to formal occasions, business functions, and even fashion shows for several years now. Thanks to their closed-laced system and their thin silhouette. Designers have created Oxford shoes with a touch of class, making them modern-day must-wear for men and even women. In this post, we will discuss the various types of Oxford shoes, their history, and what differentiates them. Starting with cap toes and going through whole cuts, each type has its specialty. Making it easy for you to look for a fitting pair.
What Are Oxford Shoes?
The Oxford shoe is a type of formal shoe characterized by lacing with closed shoelace eyelets. Such eyelets are located underneath the vamp, giving a very smart and tidy finish. Such construction, as is customary, brings about the formal look of Oxford shoes. When dressed in formal, business, or classic attire, the wearer feels the most comfortable internally. Initially, men wore Oxfords, but women have embraced them because they complement both business and casual dresses.
A Brief History of the Oxford Shoes
Dating back to the very early 19th century, the development of Oxford slippers began. These are believed to originate from Scotland and Ireland. It is said that men from Oxford University wore a particular style called the Oxonian, which was half a boot with side slashes that evolved into the Oxford shoe. This evolution occurred as time went by, with designers eliminating the slits and introducing laces. Even reducing the heights of the shoes to give rise to the trendy Oxford shoe we have today.
8 Types of Oxford Shoes You Need to Know
1. Classic Plain-Toe Oxford Shoes
Also called a non-dress or classic plain-toe Oxford, this simple design features a one-piece upper without any treatment on the toe box area. This type is the most restrained of all the Oxfords. Craftsmen are usually made from the finest leather in black or deep brown shades. Such Oxfords suit formal suits or tuxedos, making them well-suited for board meetings and black-tie dinners.
2. Cap-Toe Oxford Shoes
Designers distinguish cap-toe Oxfords from other designs due to the horizontal seam or cap running across the toe area. Such seams introduce some finesse to a rather dull design. This is perhaps one of the most favorite types of Oxford shoes. The reason? People often select it for business purposes because it embodies class and little detail. They come in various colors and materials, such as leather and suede. Such variety makes them practical for both formal and semi-formal settings.
3. Wingtip (Brogue) Oxford Shoes
The decorative holes in the leatherwork and the winged design make Focus or Brogue Oxfords stand out. The design on the sides of the shoe resembles an “M” and “W,” adding to their distinct look. Brogue shoes trace back to Scotland, and they are not as dressy as captoes. As their name suggests, Wingtip Oxfords offer comfort while pairing well with smart-casual wear. They add a fashion edge, perfect for functions that do not require extreme formal wear.
4. Saddle Oxford Shoes
A nod to the glorious 1950s, saddle Oxfords feature a unique leather ornament on the midsection of the shoe. This ornament resembles a saddle, usually colored differently. This design became prevalent in the mid-20th century and was regularly associated with active sports, particularly tennis. In the modern era, saddle Oxfords inspire selections from the past. These types of Oxford shoes often appear in most casual fashions for their striking two-tone nature.
5. Whole-Cut Oxford Shoes
This shoe gets its name from the fact that it is made entirely of leather. Leather gives whole-cut shoes an elegant and smooth silhouette. Craftsmen recognize whole-cut oxfords as made from a solid piece of leather without seams, making them suitable only for high-end parties. Even the inner lining showcases such quality, demonstrating a lot of artistry in their making. All because these types of Oxford shoes usually feature top-grade leather.
6. Suede Oxford Shoes
Suede Oxfords possess an element of stylishness that complements the Oxford family. Although leather Oxfords associate more with tradition, suede tends to offer a more easy-going appeal. This makes them ideal for informal functions or smart casual wear. Suede Oxfords also come in different shades of color, making them easy to wear for various occasions. Hence, these types of Oxford shoes suit every closet.
7. Oxford Sneakers
In contrast to the former, Oxford sneakers represent a contemporary variation of the original Oxford. They incorporate the wearability of sneakers while retaining the design of the usual Oxfords. We admire these types of Oxford shoes for the spring casual feel they provide while allowing a woman to wear the elegance of Oxfords. They fit a relaxed weekend or a more laid-back office where work is casual but still requires full attire.
8. Casual Oxford Shoes
A special design of footwear known as casual Oxford allows one to remain poised yet composed at the same time. These shoes come in several designs and tend to incorporate elements of comfort as well. Many people desire casual Oxfords for events where they wish to project a classy look without sacrificing comfort.
Leather Types for Oxford Shoes
Oxford shoes from different types of leather possess their features and advantages. Knowing which leather to choose will assist you in making the right choice regarding style, durability, and maintenance.
- Full-Grain Leather: This is the most durable type of leather available since it consists of un-split hides and retains the original grain patterns, creating a very strong and beautiful cover. Full-grain leather Oxfords suit formal shoes worn in offices.
- Patent Leather: Glossy, this metallic type of leather suits occasions that are extremely formal. Designers most commonly use patent leather in traditional styles of Oxford shoes, such as plain toe and cap toe.
- Calf Leather: Very common in the best dress shoes, calf leather is not only supple and soft but also light. The softness allows people to wear these shoes daily. Many craftsmen use calf leather, also called shoe leather, to construct styles such as cap toe and whole-cut Oxfords. These types of Oxford shoes suit formal and semi-formal wear.
- Suede: Another kind of leather, suede offers a softer feel and a different external appearance. This makes it ideal for more casual designs. Suede Oxfords appear simple yet possess a little twist, suiting smart casual wear.
The use of each type of leather will enable you to accentuate different features of the shoe. Full-grain or calf leather Oxfords will complete a classic and elegant yet flexible ensemble. If you prefer a more daring option, choose suede or patent leather, which have their own distinct charm.
Wrapping Up!
There is no doubt that Oxford shoes will remain in the world of fashion for both men and women. They undoubtedly symbolize style and multipurpose utility at the same time. Enumerating the different types of Oxford shoes allows one to strike the right balance between style and ease for every situation. Every one of these well-designed types, whether leather or suede, will surely offer a minimalist complementing fashion piece to go with an elegant suit. If you’re looking for an unusual yet sophisticated pair of shoes to complete your wardrobe, Barismil’s Oxfords are an excellent choice. They offer the perfect blend of quality and style. Plus, they provide the comfort every wearer seeks. Visit Barismil’s website and check their wide offer to find the appropriate Oxford that fits your collection.
FAQs: Questions About Types of Oxford Shoes
1. What are the different types of Oxford shoes?
The main types of Oxford shoes include classic plain-toe, cap-toe, wingtip, saddle, whole-cut, suede, Oxford sneakers, and casual Oxfords.
2. What is the difference between Oxford and brogue shoes?
Oxfords refer to any shoes with a closed lacing system. Brogues refer to many Oxford styles, such as Wingtips Oxfords, which feature decorative perforations known as broguing.
3. What is Oxford style?
Oxford style refers to the polished tapered shape of shoe surfaces. These surfaces are typically finished with a closed lacing system, a sleek heel, and an ankle cut.
4. What is the difference between Oxford and whole-cut shoes?
Both are formal. However, whole-cut shoes offer a more elegant appeal as they consist of a solid piece of leather without joints. Oxfords come in many styles, but you rarely find them in a single leather cut.
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