Men's Oxford shoes have always been considered a formal style. Over time, these beautiful and comfortable shoes acquired a more informal look.
Women also began to wear such shoes.
History of Oxfords
Oxford style is considered outdated by most people shoe style for men. But they appeared on the basis of high men's boots - "Balmoral Booth", they had large buttons in front. In the XVI-XVIII centuries. This was the only shoe model; in Great Britain and Scotland, men tucked their trousers into them to avoid getting dirty.
Of the 3 versions, the most common is that Oxford style came up with it ourselves students precisely the famous one Oxford University. At first, students on their campus decided to make these shoes shorter - to the ankles, then the buttons were replaced with laces on the side. Roads have improved significantly, and the need for trouser protection has disappeared.
What do oxfords look like?
At first, Oxford shoes were produced only in calm or strict colors: black and brown. Smooth calfskin was eventually replaced by suede and cordovan.The spectrum of colors has changed dramatically, on the toe, and backdrop and boots double ones added layers of skin (photo). With the advent of brogying, a subtype of Oxford shoes appeared - brogues.
Oxfords are distinguished by “closed” horizontal lacing, the boots are brought together in a V, and the lacing hides the “tongue” of the shoes.
Types of men's Oxfords
Brogues are often mistakenly considered Oxfords, the main thing is the type of specific lacing. But bromination may or may not occur.
Adelaide has double layer of skin on the ankle boots, decorated with brogue stitching. There is U-shaped stitching around the lacing.
Balmoral has a horizontal seam separating the ankle boots, as well as seams on the sides of the shoes. Often this subspecies is made of 2 types of leather of different colors. After this, they received the popular name “galosh”.
Wingrip - these are classic brogues with cut-off toe, they are made of double leather. On the toe of the shoes there is a clearly visible stitching in the shape of the letter W, which tapers towards the toe.
Keptoe - another subspecies of famous shoes. They are made from completely smooth skin no lines. Have cut-off sock and required the seam near shoe vamps.
Quarterbrogs – a variant of captoe shoes. There is beautiful stitching on the socks, on the sides of the boots, and also on the heel.
Punchcap - a type of captoe with a single stitch on the toe of the shoe.
Plaintoe – completely smooth men's shoes without brogueing or stitching.
Demi-brogues Similar to quarter brogues, the distinctive feature is the brogue toe in the form of a medallion.
Spectator a variant of two-tone classic shoes: oxfords and brogues. Here you can see the toe, boots and heel in one color, the rest of the elements in another.
Saddle – a model in a sporty style, made of suede or smooth calfskin.On the side and with a wide stripe, the toe box up to the lacing is highlighted in one color, and the middle of the shoe across the foot is highlighted in another. The colors can be bright.
Holkat - another type of oxford. The shoes are made from a single piece of soft leather; there are no stitches, additional details or layers.
Materials and colors of men's oxfords, what to wear with them?
The stylish severity of Oxford shoes dictates the style. This requires you to choose your clothes wisely. Two things play an important role: color and the material from which the shoes are made.
Black models ideal with black and gray men's suits, and blue ones look elegant with brown shoes. Black color is universal for men, suitable for almost all kinds of men’s looks.
Suede Oxfords recommended for use in everyday life for informal meetings, walks, etc. Wool trousers, tweed blazers, knitted, knitted pullovers, etc. are suitable. For a blue suit with a blue formal shirt, suede oxfords are ideal, and a tie can be bright in the opposite direction colors such as burgundy.
Sports models saddle look great with lightweight summer suits, jeans or chinos, and colored blazers. They fit perfectly into a casual casual style.
Stylish female models
Over time, all “masculine” things become feminine. High heels are replaced by comfortable shoes with medium heels or without them at all.
Ladies' shoes can be different, classic models - This is a pointed toe of a shoe with “closed” lacing and a small heel. However, designers have expanded their horizons and offer a wide range of models for girls and women.
Sole of women's oxfords
The sole can be any: flat or with heels up to 7 cm.
Trending thick sole, made of polyurethane.
Original tractor sole, models can be with multi-colored soles. Unusual relief and color of the sole, where the design of the upper is made in contrast.
Women's oxfords look extravagant on a wedge (platform), fashionistas always have this model, it is easy to wear and gives height to short girls (women).
Now they are releasing thick high-heeled lace-up shoes and women's low shoes.
Materials and colors of women's oxfords
Suede models are very popular; their soft comfort is captivating. They are suitable for a free urban style.
Shoes often combine several materials, for example, suede with leather or textiles.
Classic shoes even in women below the ankle, but there are also high oxfords, analogues of ankle boots. They may have ribbons instead of laces.
Also as decoration perforation or rhinestones can be used.
Female youth models amaze with a large palette of colors: from black to red, white with gold, blue, etc.
The trend is two-tone shoe models or with a print. The combinations can be contrasting, for example, white and red or yellow and brown shoes.
For a strict dress code, it is better to choose chocolate or black models. And in your free time, you can wear brightly colored shoes made of suede or patent leather.
White shoes It is advisable to wear with light-colored clothing.
Universal shoes of different shades and materials, with any sole (flat or high heels) give fashionistas great opportunities to create a stylish look in any situation.