Lace Up, Look Sharp

The oxford started at Oxford University in the early 1800s, as a half boot students wore. The name "oxford shoes" appears in writing by around 1846. The shoe has closed laces, which is why it looks so neat.

 

Oxfords are back on Pinterest with loafers, worn with trousers and socks or with straight jeans. They feel smart without trying.

 

Here are three types: classic leather oxfords, lug and platform oxfords, and soft lace-ups and derbies.

Classic oxfords are sleek and flat. The Favorite Daughter Callie Oxford, the Paul Green Frankie Leather Oxford and the Seychelles Starlet Leather Oxford in black are simple and easy to wear.

 

The Nisolo Emilia Cap Toe Oxford and the Magnanni Elena Cap Toe Oxford have a cap toe. The Bed Stu Lita K II Wingtip Oxford and the SCAROSSO Judy Oxfords add detail. The Eastland Sadie Saddle Oxford has a two-tone saddle.

 

Fitting-room test: your heel should not slip when you walk. What I would skip: very pointed oxfords, which pinch.

A lug sole adds height and grip. The Dr. Martens 1461 Bex Smooth Leather Oxford in black and the Dr. Martens 1461 Quad Smooth Leather Platform Shoes are the cult picks. The Cole Haan Grand City Platform Oxford in black and ivory is lighter.

 

The MARC NOLAN Demi Calf Leather Lug Oxfords and the Dansko Lace-Up Oxford Platform Pump are comfortable for long days. The L'AGENCE Tania Platform Oxford Pumps have a heel. The Johnston & Murphy Ulyssa Wingtip and the Cole Haan Grand CityMotion Wingtip Oxford are sporty.

 

Care tip: break in stiff leather with thick socks at home. What I would skip: very tall platforms for walking commutes.

These are softer and easier to slip on. The Madewell Greta Lace Up Oxford Flats and the Miz Mooz Letty Oxford Flat are light. The Favorite Daughter Callie Derby Shoes and the THE OFFICE OF US Ms. Eugenie Brogue Derby have open laces, which fit wider feet.

 

The Jeffrey Campbell Swingdance Lace-Up Jazz Oxford and the Nine West Jazzy Oxford have a jazz shoe shape. The Cinq à Sept Christina Lace-Up Oxfords in ivory and the Camper Casi Myra Leather Lace Up Shoe round it out.

 

What I check: the insole. It should have some padding. What I would skip: thin soles for wet days.

Start with a classic black leather oxford. It works with trousers, jeans and skirts. Add a lug sole for winter, and lace-up flats for easy days.

 

Wear them with socks that show a little. That is the detail that makes them feel new.