Few shoes are as classic and versatile as a simple pair of Oxford shoes for women. Passed down through generations, these finely crafted leather shoes have stood the test of time. However, as timeless as they are, Oxfords can seem intimidating for those unfamiliar with how to style them. Over the years, I’ve accumulated a fair bit of experience pairing Oxfords with different outfits for work, weekends, and everything in between.
In this post, I’ll break down the basics of how to wear Oxford shoes women’s and share tips on everything from lacing to wearing them with different pant lengths so you can start feeling as confident in your Oxfords as I do in mine. By the time you’ve finished reading, these shoes will no longer seem stuffy or formal – you’ll be seeing them as your new wardrobe MVPs.
9 Best Ways on How to Wear Oxford Shoes Women’s
1. With a Suit:
Traditionally, Oxfords are paired with men’s suits. However, they can also make an excellent addition to women’s business attire. For a sharp and polished look, pair your black or brown Oxford shoes with a tailored blazer and trousers or pencil skirt.
This classic combination is perfect for any office setting, interviews, or important meetings. This will instantly elevate your outfit and give it a professional touch.
2. With Cropped Pants:
Cropped pants are all the rage these days, and adding Oxford shoes to the mix can create a chic and sophisticated look. The key is to pair them with tapered or slim-fit cropped pants that hit just above the ankle. This will allow your Oxfords to shine and add a touch of elegance to your outfit. You can also experiment with different colors and textures for a more playful look.
3. With Midi or Maxi Skirts:
For a feminine and vintage-inspired look, pair your Oxfords with midi or maxi skirts. This combination is perfect for any season and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Opt for a flowy midi skirt for a casual look or a structured maxi skirt for a more formal event. Adding Oxfords to this outfit will add a touch of unexpected charm and make your look stand out.
4. With Skinny Jeans:
For an effortlessly stylish and comfortable outfit, pair your Oxford shoes with skinny jeans. Whether you opt for classic blue denim or black, this combination is perfect for everyday wear. For a more casual look, leave your Oxfords unlaced and cuff your jeans at the ankle to show them off. This is a great way to add a touch of sophistication to your go-to jeans and t-shirt combo.
5. With Tights:
As the weather gets colder, you don’t have to put away your beloved Oxford shoes. Instead, pair them with tights for a cozy yet stylish look. This combination is perfect for autumn and winter and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a more formal event, opt for opaque black tights, and for a more casual look, go for patterned or colored tights.
6. With Dresses:
Don’t limit your Oxford shoes to just pants and skirts – they also look great with dresses. This combination is perfect for a casual yet put-together look. For a more feminine vibe, pair your Oxfords with a flowy sundress or a maxi dress. You can also add tights if the weather calls for it. This is a great way to make your summer dresses wearable year-round.
7. With Shorts:
For a bold and edgy look, pair your Oxford shoes with shorts. This combination may seem unconventional at first, but it can create a fun and unique outfit for warmer days. Go for high-waisted shorts to balance out the more formal look of the Oxfords. This is a great look for music festivals, brunch with friends, or any casual outing.
8. With Wide-Leg Pants:
For a fashion-forward and sophisticated look, pair your Oxfords with wide-leg pants. Make sure the pants are tailored to avoid looking too slouchy. This combination is perfect for work or more formal events, and it’s a great way to switch up your usual office attire. Opt for neutral colors for a timeless look or experiment with bold patterns.
9. With Socks:
Who says you can’t wear socks with your Oxfords? Adding socks to this footwear combination is not only practical for colder days, but it also adds a fun and playful touch to your outfit. You can go for classic black or white socks, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors and patterns. This is a great way to add some personality to your look while still looking put-together.
Following these tips, you’ll never have to wonder how to wear Oxford shoes women’s again. Oxfords are a versatile and stylish addition to any wardrobe, and with a little creativity, they can be dressed up or down for any occasion. So go ahead and give them a try – your feet (and outfit) will thank you!
Additional Tips and Tricks to Wear Oxford Shoes Women’s
1. If you’re looking for a more casual look, pair your Oxford shoes with a flowy dress or skirt. This will balance out the structured look of the shoes and give you a comfortable yet stylish outfit.
2. For a chic and sophisticated look, opt for a monochromatic outfit. Pair black Oxford shoes with black pants and a white blouse for an elegant and modern look.
3. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns and textures with your Oxford shoes. They can add a fun and playful element to your outfit. Try pairing them with a printed top or skirt for a bold statement.
4. To elongate your legs, opt for oxford shoes with a pointed toe. This will create the illusion of longer and slimmer legs.
5. When wearing oxford shoes with pants, make sure the hem of your pants is tailored to just above or just below the ankle. This will ensure that your shoes are visible and create a polished look.
6. To add a pop of color to your outfit, choose Oxford shoes in a bright or bold color like red or blue. This can elevate a simple outfit and add a touch of personality.
7. For a more casual and comfortable look, pair your Oxford shoes with cuffed jeans or trousers. This will give off a relaxed vibe while still looking put-together.
8. When wearing oxford shoes with socks, choose ankle-length socks in a neutral color like black or gray. This will create a seamless transition from the shoe to the pants and maintain a sleek look.
9. For a preppy and classic look, wear your oxford shoes with a button-down shirt and high-waisted skirt. This is a timeless outfit that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
10. To add a touch of femininity to your Oxford shoes, opt for ones with cutouts or embellishments like bows or fringe. This will add a delicate and playful touch to your outfit.
11. When in doubt, stick to neutral colors like black, brown, or white for your Oxford shoes. These colors are versatile and can easily be paired with any outfit.
Following these tips and tricks will help you create stylish and versatile outfits with your Oxford shoes. Experiment with different styles and have fun incorporating this timeless shoe into your wardrobe. So, don’t be afraid to mix and match and make the Oxford shoe your own. Happy styling!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Did Oxford Shoes Get Their Name?
A common misconception is that Oxford shoes were named after the prestigious Oxford University in England. However, there are conflicting theories on the origins of the name. Some believe it was originally called “Oxonian” after the University of Oxford, while others claim it was named after a specific style of shoe worn by students at Oxford University.
What Is the Difference Between Oxfords and Brogues?
Oxfords and brogues are often confused, but there is a clear distinction between the two. Oxfords have closed lacing, while brogues have decorative perforations on the toe cap. Additionally, Oxfords are traditionally more formal than brogues.
How Should I Wear Oxford Shoes?
Oxford shoes can be worn for both formal and casual occasions. For a formal look, pair them with a suit or dress pants. For a more casual outfit, they can be worn with jeans or chinos. Just make sure to choose the right color and style to match your outfit.
Do Oxford Shoes Come in Different Styles?
Yes, there are several different styles of Oxford shoes for women. Some popular styles include classic black or brown leather Oxfords, patent leather Oxfords for a more formal look, and suede or metallic Oxfords for a modern twist.
Are Oxford Shoes Comfortable?
Oxford shoes are known for their comfort due to their low heel and closed-lacing design. However, it is important to find the right fit and break them in properly for optimal comfort. Consider trying on multiple sizes and materials to find the perfect fit for your feet.
Conclusion
With the above outlined you can easily understand how to wear oxford shoes women’s. Remember, Oxford shoes are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Experiment with different styles and have fun incorporating these timeless shoes into your wardrobe! If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to ask a salesperson or do some research online for more tips and inspiration. Happy styling!