The Oxford has been manufactured in England since 1830. It is considered a quintessential English shoe and arguably the most elegant shoe style. It is best known for formal occasions. Originally worn (almost) exclusively by men, it has now firmly established itself in men's shoe wardrobes. Durawalk introduces Oxford shoes and presents high-quality models with excellent value for money.

The Oxford has been an integral part of men's shoe fashion since the 1920s

According to legend, students at Oxford College popularized the Oxford shoe in the mid-19th century. While high or mid-calf boots or ankle boots were previously considered chic among men, academics considered the Oxford, a lace-up shoe, a better way to express their style.

Around 1860, it established itself as a classic men's summer shoe. The sole of the lace-up shoe was still very thin and offered little protection against adverse weather conditions. In the early 1920s, thick-soled Oxford shoes became fashionable. They defied inclement weather and became an integral part of men's footwear.

Its characteristic feature is its closed lacing. It is usually closed with five pairs of eyelets. Ideally, the Oxford appears to be made from a single piece. Only the upper edge of the tongue is visible. This looks significantly more elegant than lace-up shoes like the Derby or Blücher, which have open lacing.

Different models – one thing in common: The Oxford exudes pure elegance

Additional broguing is largely omitted from the Oxford, as its clean lines, narrow shape, and smooth surface already exude pure elegance. This type of Oxford is called a plain Oxford. If there is also a front cap seam running across the toe, it is called a cap-toe Oxford.

The Wholecut and Seamless Oxford models deserve a special mention here, as they take the purist elegance of the Oxford to the extreme. A Wholecut refers to an Oxford that, in addition to the shaft edge seam, only has a visible heel seam. The Seamless Oxford, on the other hand, dispenses with this seam. Accordingly, the leather used in these models is of a higher quality, not to mention the craftsmanship required. Wholecut and Seamless Oxfords are usually made to measure.

The Oxford is the perfect companion to the tuxedo.

Today Oxford is probably the most elegant shoe model and should be a part of every men's and women's shoe collection. With its narrow fit and closed lacing, the Oxford is far too fancy for leisure wear. However, it goes perfectly with pinstriped suits and guarantees the wearer an elegant appearance. Whether made of calfskin, suede, suede, or patent leather, with or without brogues, in black or brown - as dress shoes you are guaranteed to make a good impression in the office, in business, or at celebrations. For the great actor and proven gentleman, leather Oxford shoes were one of his absolute favorites.

Often worn in black, it's made of box calf leather, making it the perfect companion to a tuxedo. The dark brown Oxford also pairs well with charcoal, navy, or dark brown suits.

An Oxford men’s shoe for a wedding tuxedo or business suit

Of course, everyone is free to wear their Oxford with jeans and the like, just as is permissible with brogues. However, Oxford always demonstrates a certain sense of style or fashion, and the wearer automatically exudes elegance and taste when wearing such a men's shoe. This advantage, however, can be inappropriate in many casual situations and is therefore rather rare. Oxfords, on the other hand, are very commonly worn in dark brown or black. While black Oxfords, such as a whole-cut Oxford, go perfectly with a tuxedo or wedding suit, dark brown Oxfords can look chic with navy suits. Oxfords look particularly elegant and fashionable on people with narrow feet.

Oxfords remain true to their line in all models.

Oxford shoes embody pure elegance and are a must-have for a smart tuxedo. All men's Oxford shoes retain this fundamental style and exude English elegance and grace. It's no wonder that many fashion-conscious men cite the Oxford men's shoe as their favorite.

• Oxfords represent the pinnacle of shoemaking and are sewn using complex techniques. This makes the shoe durable, stable, and dimensionally stable.

• High-quality Oxford shoes are usually handcrafted. This is the only way to create a full-leather shoe with a host of quality features.

• Stability and quality – characteristics that are due to high-quality leather, which even the heel of an Oxford is made of.

• Oxfords are subject to the highest quality standards and are manufactured using only the finest materials and strict traditional processes, often involving over 150 individual steps.

Trend models vs. classics

Brown patent leather Oxford shoes are particularly popular in men's fashion and ideal for particularly elegant occasions. Models with thicker soles in the so-called chunky look are popular. These trendy shoes are increasingly appearing in shiny patent leather designs and are worn by trendsetters and extroverted fashionistas with knee-high socks. The look requires a bit of courage, however. Those who prefer a classic look can wear a simple black or brown model with a suit or dark jeans. 

Men are always stylish when wearing Oxfords, as they are a classic with a fashionable and elegant touch. Whether spring, summer, or fall, Oxfords are suitable for (almost) every season.  Especially in business, where formal attire is important, these shoes should be worn discreetly and not too eccentrically

The modern Oxford

The dark brown Oxford is often worn with a charcoal, navy, or dark brown suit. If your style leans more towards sophistication and elegance or you prefer a casual business look, lighter Oxford brown tones are also acceptable for Oxford. You're also increasingly finding versions with broguing—perforated seams on the upper that can extend from the toe cap to the back. We understand that the more decoration, the more casual the occasion for which the Oxford is worn. Perforated seams, in particular, are an ideal complement to your summer linen wardrobe. Generally speaking, this shoe style should be limited to a classic wardrobe.