Oxford shoes have been a staple in men’s footwear for decades. Known for their classic and sophisticated look, oxfords are a versatile shoe that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re going to a formal event or just running errands, oxfords can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. In this guide, we’ll take you through the different styles of oxford shoes and how to wear them with your wardrobe.

The Different Styles of Oxford Shoes

Before we dive into how to style oxford shoes, let’s take a look at the different styles available. There are four main types of oxfords: plain oxfords, cap-toe oxfords, wingtip oxfords, and whole-cut oxfords.

Plain Oxfords: These are the simplest and most classic type of oxford shoes. They have a plain toe and no additional decorative elements, making them the perfect choice for formal occasions.

Cap-Toe Oxfords: Cap-toe oxfords have a decorative seam across the toe, creating a small “cap.” This style is slightly less formal than plain oxfords and can be worn to both formal and semi-formal events.

Wingtip Oxfords: Wingtip oxfords have a decorative “W” shape on the toe and often have perforations along the edges. This style is less formal than plain or cap-toe oxfords and can be worn with both formal and casual outfits.

Whole-Cut Oxfords: Whole-cut oxfords are made from a single piece of leather with no seams or decorative elements. This style is the most formal of all the oxfords and is typically worn for black-tie events.

How to Wear Oxford Shoes

Now that we’ve gone over the different styles of oxford shoes, let’s talk about how to wear them with your wardrobe.

Formal Wear: If you’re wearing oxford shoes with a suit or tuxedo, stick to plain or cap-toe oxfords in black or dark brown. Pair them with dress socks that match your pants, and make sure your pants are tailored to the correct length. For a more daring look, try pairing your oxfords with a patterned suit or a colored pocket square.

Business Casual: Oxford shoes can be worn with business casual attire, such as dress pants and a button-down shirt. Stick to plain or cap-toe oxfords in black or dark brown. Pair them with dress socks that match your pants, and make sure your pants are tailored to the correct length. For a more casual look, try wearing your oxfords with chinos or jeans.

Casual Wear: Oxford shoes can also be worn with casual outfits, such as a t-shirt and jeans. Wingtip oxfords in lighter colors like tan or beige work well for casual outfits. Make sure your jeans are slim-fitting and not too long. Roll up the cuffs of your pants to show off your shoes.

In conclusion, oxford shoes are a timeless and versatile shoe that can be worn with a variety of outfits. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or dressing down for a casual day out, oxfords can add a touch of sophistication to your wardrobe. With the right pair of oxfords and a little styling know-how, you can elevate any outfit to the next level.