10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (2024)

When it comes to formalwear, there are a few essentials that every man needs in his closet. Oxfords are definitively one of them. You could have the perfect suit, tailored to a tee, cufflinks glimmering and tie pin-straight, but with the wrong pair of shoes, the whole thing is for naught. Oxfords, however, are never the wrong pair of shoes.

The history of Oxfords is a long, prestigious, and slightly hazy one. The dress shoe style, recognizable by its closed lacing system with eyelets stitched directly to the vamp (thus making it look tighter and more formal than, say, a brogue), draws its roots from none other than Oxford University, where, in the 1800s, it was reportedly (aptly) named by students. Other histories cite that the style was created by Prince Albert, but no matter how you look at it, the story ends up the same: these are a damn elevated, dressy shoe.

Whether you're going for a classic look, a wingtip or a cap-toe, the right pair of Oxfords should be something that ties your look together, brings you a step up from "put-together" to "absolutely, indisputably polished." For your next formal occasion, shop the 10 best Oxfords below.

best polished oxfords

Dior Timeless Oxford Shoes

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (11)

best polished oxfords

Dior Timeless Oxford Shoes

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (12)Timelessly elegant look
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (13)High-quality construction from a trusted brand
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (14)Blake stitching
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (15)Expensive
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (16)Polished leather scratches easily

Oxfords are inherently dressy, but Dior kicks it up another notch with a smooth, shiny style in polished black leather. These are sleek and elegant, with a subtle embossed logo, Blake stitching for longevity, and an appearance that makes any suit look that much more sophisticated.

ColorsBlack
Sizes5-15
MaterialsCalfskin Leather

best go-to oxfords

J.Crew Ludlow Cap Toe Leather Oxfords

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (17)

best go-to oxfords

J.Crew Ludlow Cap Toe Leather Oxfords

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (18)Zigzagged edge on cap toe
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (19)Timeless look
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (20)Limited color options

As with most categories of menswear, you can turn to J.Crew for a damn good pair of Oxfords, too. These are a timelessly elegant style, designed to look as good as they feel, down to the very last detail.

ColorsBlack
Sizes7-13
MaterialsLeather

best sleek oxfords

Anthony Veer Clinton Cap Toe Oxfords

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (21)

best sleek oxfords

Anthony Veer Clinton Cap Toe Oxfords

Now 37% Off

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (22)Goodyear welt construction
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (23)Great price
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (24)Flexible outer
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (25)Runs small
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (26)Prone to squeaking during break-in period

Anthony Veer comes in with a slim, sleek, and affordable pair of Oxfords that you don't want to pass up. Aside from being classy and comfortable, these are effortlessly elegant, with a rubber outsole.

ColorsBlack, Chocolate Brown, Oxblood
Sizes7-14
MaterialsLeather

Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below

best stylish oxfords

Beckett Simonon Dean Oxfords

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (27)

best stylish oxfords

Beckett Simonon Dean Oxfords

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (28)Elegant, unique look
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (29)Great for when you don't feel like wearing classic black or brown options
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (30)Plenty of color options
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (31)Buyers report a long break-in period

If you don't want to play by the book in black or brown, go for a deep burgundy shoe. These Oxfords may be a little bit outside the box, but with a classic design and elegant, burnished finished, they're a chic pick that could never be called boring.

ColorsBlack, Bordeaux, Brown, Oak, Tan
Sizes7-14
MaterialsLeather

best elegant oxfords

Berluti Blake Whole-Cut Venezia Leather Oxford Shoes

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (32)

best elegant oxfords

Berluti Blake Whole-Cut Venezia Leather Oxford Shoes

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (33)Whole-cut to show patina over time
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (34)Iconic, burnished look
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (35)Pricey
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (36)Fits narrow at the toe

Most shoes don't get better with age, but these do. Berluti's staple, burnished leather look is just as good on an Oxford as it is on, say, a wallet. These smooth shoes are all about understated luxury, with a whole-cut design that oxidizes and shows the patina of the hide over time.

ColorsBrown
SizesUK 7-UK 12
MaterialsCalf Leather

best everyday oxfords

Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Cap Toe Oxfords

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (37)

best everyday oxfords

Allen Edmonds Park Avenue Cap Toe Oxfords

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (38)Expansive size and width range
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (39)Breathable lining
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (40)Made to support higher arches
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (41)Buyers report fit inconsistencies
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (42)Color isn't an exact match to photos

Elegant and classy, these are infallible Oxfords that you won't need to rotate out. You can wear them with pretty much any elevated look, and with a breathable lining and comfortable, flexible sole, you'll want to, too.

ColorsDark Chili Burnished, Navy, Walnut, Black
Sizes6.5-16
MaterialsLeather

Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below

best timeless oxfords

Johnston & Murphy Danridge Cap Toe Oxfords

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (43)

best timeless oxfords

Johnston & Murphy Danridge Cap Toe Oxfords

Now 41% Off

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (44)Cushiony insole with molded footbed
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (45)Vintage-inspired look
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (46)Perforated toe detail
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (47)Runs small
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (48)Extra narrow in the toe

You can go for a shiny, sleek, and new Oxford, but if something vintage is your vibe, Johnston & Murphy has you covered. This style is aged like a fine wine, with a perforated toe, molded footbed, and cushioned insole.

ColorsTan, Black
Sizes8-14
MaterialsLeather

best understated oxfords

George Cleverley Merlin Leather Oxford Shoes

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (49)

best understated oxfords

George Cleverley Merlin Leather Oxford Shoes

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (50)Goodyear welted soles provide comfort and longevity
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (51)Made by experienced craftsmen
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (52)No options for width

Sleek and simple, George Cleverley has a pair of Oxfords for the modern man. These are indisputably cool, with a clean look, whole-cut, all-black design, and high-end craftsmanship that exudes luxury.

ColorsBlack
SizesUK 6-UK 12
MaterialsSuede

best designer oxfords

Prada Brushed Leather Laced Oxford Shoes

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (53)

best designer oxfords

Prada Brushed Leather Laced Oxford Shoes

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (54)Classic, timeless look
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (55)Leather and rubber sole for longevity and comfort
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (56)$$$

My dad has been wearing Prada Oxfords for years, and let me assure you—from weddings to company parties, these shoes can do it all. With a chic, stylish brushed leather finish, these are classic Oxfords that certainly don't skimp on style.

ColorsBlack
SizesUK 5-UK 13
MaterialsCalf Leather

Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below

best luxury oxfords

Tom Ford Caydon Burnished-Leather Oxford Shoes

10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (57)

best luxury oxfords

Tom Ford Caydon Burnished-Leather Oxford Shoes

Pros
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (58)Classic cap-toe look
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (59)High-quality construction
Cons
  • 10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (60)Pricey

Of course, few designers know their way around a suit like Tom Ford does. If he says a burnished leather Oxford with a classic cap-toe is the way to go, well, who are we to argue?

ColorsBlack
SizesUK 7-UK 12
MaterialsCalf Leather
10 Oxford Shoes You Can't Go Wrong With (2024)

FAQs

Are Oxfords out of style? ›

Oxford shoes are a timeless classic. They've long held a coveted status as a style staple in the wide world of footwear. No matter how many fleeting trends may come and go, the Oxford shoe continues to prevail.

Which is better, Oxford or Derby? ›

For those who wear suits in the office, the Oxford is the more typical choice since it is a more traditional business look. Derbys are more versatile and can be worn to a wider range of occasions, including casual business meetings and more relaxed social events.

What is the meaning of oxford shoes? ›

Let's make it really easy. Oxford shoes are dress shoes that have shoelace eyelets stitched directly to the vamp in a way that the lacing is closed.

What does "oxfords not brogues" mean? ›

Formality and Professionalism Driving “Oxford Not Brogues” 🤵🏻👔 The absence of brogue detailing gives the Oxford shoe a more formal and professional appearance. This makes them the preferred choice for business settings, formal events, and occasions where a polished and sophisticated look is desired.

Do you wear socks with Oxfords? ›

Oxfords can be worn without socks and sometimes can be seen as 'trendy', but my advice would be to avoid doing so and if leather loafers are out of your price bracket invest in a pair of linen socks. They're durable, breathable, and comfortable and will look much more appropriate than without socks.

What toe shape is in style in 2024? ›

Square-toed heels are being replaced by rounded or pointed toes. "The square toe was emblematic of 2021, during the peak of the Bottega padded heel's popularity," Young said. But for 2024, the stylist recommended opting for a pointed or rounded toe for a more modern style.

Can you wear Oxfords with jeans? ›

Oxfords paired with jeans will certainly turn out to be stylish if you choose the right color. If you're wearing blue jeans, you should wear tan oxfords. If you wish to pair your denim with something brown or black, choose Oxfords in either brown or black.

What is the difference between oxford shoes and brogues? ›

An Oxford is a shoe that features a closed-lacing system on the shoe, resulting in a tighter shoe and more formal appearance. Brogues refer to the decorative perforations along the toe-cap, sides, or upper length of a shoe, which give a visually impressive appearance to a shoe, and can be found on Oxfords.

When to wear oxford shoes? ›

Formal Occasions

The Oxford shoe is the perfect piece to tie together a formal outfit. Be it black tie or co*cktail events, the Oxford is a stylish shoe that will pack a punch. For the conservative types, black leather Oxford shoes will never lead you astray. Brown leather Oxfords will work well with grey or navy suits.

Are Oxford shoes in style in 2024? ›

Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of Oxfords, the casual sophistication of loafers, or the bold statement of monk straps, these iconic dress shoe styles are sure to elevate your wardrobe.

What is a black Oxford shoe? ›

Oxford shoes have a distinctive design in which the eyelet area is concealed within the vamp. This model is a classic formal dress shoe which will never be out of style. These oxford shoes are a great example of the basic black cap toe oxfords.

Are you supposed to tie Oxford shoes? ›

As Oxford shoes are a formal style of dress shoe, you'll need to tie them in a knot that complements the look. Aim for a knot that is not chunky, but instead small, flat, and horizontal to be in line with the straight-bar lacing.

Can you wear Oxfords without a suit? ›

Contemporary Oxford styles

Oxford shoes are classic, and as such those timeless black patent leather Oxfords are the perfect dress shoe, but due to the modern styling of Oxfords they also work well in smart-casual situations; particularly when paired with anything less than a suit.

Why are they called Oxfords? ›

Oxfords were derived from the Oxonian, a half-boot with side slits that gained popularity at Oxford University in 1800. Unlike early shoes, Oxfords were cut smaller than the foot. The side slit evolved into a side lace that eventually moved to the instep, as students rebelled against knee-high and ankle-high boots.

Can I wear Oxfords with shorts? ›

Indeed, you can. From Oxfords to loafers, there's an endless array of dress shoes to pair with shorts when temperatures rise.

Are Oxfords in style in 2024? ›

Pair them with jeans or chinos for a relaxed yet refined outfit. Are Oxford shoes in style for 2024? Yes, Oxford shoes continue to be a fashionable choice in 2024. Designers are incorporating modern elements into their designs, making them relevant and stylish for today's fashion landscape.

Is it OK to wear oxford shoes? ›

Smart-Casual Occasions

Oxford shoes are traditionally noted for being a formal dress shoe but this is no longer the case. If you tend to be more relaxed in your dress sense, you'll be pleased to know that Oxfords work just as well with chinos, trousers and jeans.

Are Oxfords timeless? ›

People wear Oxfords primarily for their elegance and timeless design. They are versatile, fitting for both formal events and semi-formal settings. Oxfords have a rich history and have been the footwear choice for many elites, making them an enduring classic.

Are clear shoes in style in 2024? ›

In fashion, trends come and go, but some manage to hold their ground and become timeless classics. Clear heels are one such trend that has slowly but steadily gained popularity over the years. As we enter 2024, these transparent shoes seem poised to dominate fashion.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Sen. Emmett Berge

Last Updated:

Views: 5783

Rating: 5 / 5 (80 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Sen. Emmett Berge

Birthday: 1993-06-17

Address: 787 Elvis Divide, Port Brice, OH 24507-6802

Phone: +9779049645255

Job: Senior Healthcare Specialist

Hobby: Cycling, Model building, Kitesurfing, Origami, Lapidary, Dance, Basketball

Introduction: My name is Sen. Emmett Berge, I am a funny, vast, charming, courageous, enthusiastic, jolly, famous person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.