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They say history repeats itself, and your footwear proves it. Oxford shoes, first seen in Scotland and Ireland and later popularized at Oxford University, have evolved from practical men’s footwear into an iconic unisex style. Women rocked Oxfords in the 1920s, trading heels for durable, sophisticated shoes in a fashion rebellion we can get behind.
Oxford shoes are defined by their sleek, closed-lace design and low heels. Their vamp covers the toes and insteps for a polished silhouette, perfect for both dressy and casual outfits. History’s black and brown leather pairs are still popular today, but you’ll also see modern takes in bold colors and unique textures to suit your personal style.
If you want to learn how to wear Oxford shoes for ladies, read on for 12 curated outfit ideas you can find on ThredUp.
Oxford shoes come in a range of styles, including the following:
Plain-toe Oxfords: These are all about clean lines, with no additional stitching or detailing. Wear them with tailored suits and evening dresses.
Cap-toe Oxfords: These Oxford shoes have an extra piece of leather stitched across the toe. They’re a classic choice that goes with anything
Wingtip Oxfords: This style has a signature “W” or “M”-shaped toe cap and broguing, which are decorative perforations. They’re less formal than cap-toes, perfect for date nights and casual workplaces.
Saddle Oxfords: Saddle Oxfords became popular in the mid-20th century. They feature contrasting leather panels and are often seen in retro black and white designs.
Whole-cut Oxfords: These formal shoes are crafted from a single piece of leather. Their seamless, sophisticated design lends itself well to upscale events
Learn how to style Oxford shoes with these 12 outfit suggestions.
Black Oxford shoes shine with black straight-leg jeans, a tailored black blazer, and a white button-up shirt. Tuck the shirt in and accessorize this office-ready outfit with a slim leather belt, gold hoop earrings, and a structured handbag. If it’s cold out, swap the blazer for a trench coat.
Pair brown Oxford shoes with wide-leg jeans in a light wash. This looks fantastic with a cozy beige sweater and a cropped leather jacket for lunch with friends or a casual dinner date.
To highlight the lacing of these dress shoes, roll the hem of your jeans an inch or two. Complete this look with aviator sunglasses and a bucket bag.
Style a long skirt with a flowy blouse and black Oxfords. This soft, breezy look works best with a neutral or pastel color palette. Add an oversized cardigan for maximum coziness, and head out to browse the local bookstore or enjoy high tea with a friend.
Create a preppy vibe with a white collared shirt layered underneath a knit sweater vest. Pair this with boyfriend jeans and glossy Oxfords for a smart vibe that’s still comfortable enough for a busy day at the office. Give this outfit extra personality with accessories like a patterned scarf or tortoiseshell glasses, and finish the look with a leather mini backpack.
To make a statement, reach for leather Oxfords in bold burgundy or navy blue. Wear them with tailored trousers in a neutral tone like black or tan and a crewneck sweater. If trousers aren’t your style, swap them out for straight-leg or skinny jeans in white or black.
This attire is particularly striking with a simple trench coat and clutch. The understated trench coat and clutch allow the dress shoes to take center stage as you attend a business dinner or art gallery opening.
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Brown Oxford shoes are perfect for an easygoing day when you still want to look put-together. Pair them with black jeans and a gray T-shirt, layering with a denim jacket. Cuff the jeans slightly to show off the shoes, and accessorize this minimalist outfit with a tote bag and delicate (or no) jewelry. It’s a great ’fit for running errands or doing a half-day at the office on casual Fridays.
A fitted turtleneck, a longline wool coat, and black, wide-leg pants are all you need to rock Oxfords. This cozy yet sophisticated look is warm enough for chilly days without sacrificing style. Wear it with a designer bag and sleek gloves.
Dresses and Oxford shoes = such a great match. The shoe’s structure works so well with a dress’s flowy fabric.
Try a floral midi dress with black matte Oxfords and white mid-calf socks. Add a cropped denim jacket or thick leather jacket, depending on the weather. We love a woven bag with this outfit for a boho feel.
Feel like doubling up on denim? Pair a chambray shirt with dark blue jeans and brown Oxford shoes for a relaxed workplace look or an evening out with friends. Choose contrasting denim washes to capture attention without looking too monochrome. Break up the denim with a shoulder bag and printed scarf.
Hit the streets with black skinny jeans, a white T-shirt, and an oversized plaid blazer. Add black Oxfords, and you’re ready for that hip new bar you heard about. This outfit pairs well with a small crossbody bag or slouchy tote bag.
For a more vintage look, go with brown Oxfords, a high-waisted A-line skirt, and a tucked-in striped sweater. In colder weather, simply add a pair of knee-high socks.
Play up the retro feel here with colors like olive green, burnt orange, and mustard yellow.
Wear black leather Oxfords with beige tailored trousers and a cream knit sweater for something clean-cut and refined. This put-together look is perfect for everything from work to date night. Add a camel coat and a structured purse, and you’re set.
Oxfords are timeless and versatile dress shoes. Whether you’re attending a brunch, conference, or wedding, the outfit possibilities are endless.
Find everything you need to create the above outfits on ThredUp. From preloved skirts and shirts to dresses and outerwear, we have it all—at up to 90% off retail prices.
Use our Style Chat feature to find even more inspiration. We’ll provide personalized style advice to help you choose the best Oxford shoe outfits for you. And if you need to make room in your wardrobe for your new ’fits, order a Clean Out bag. Fill it up with your preloved goods and use the provided prepaid shipping label to send it to us—we’ll give you thrifting credit in return.
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