While kitten heels may be reminiscent of the 1960s, black patent leather plain or whole-cut oxford shoes remain elegant and sophisticated in any modern wardrobe. Pair these formal lace-ups with your formal attire for white-tie or black-tie events for maximum impact!
Low heels oxford shoes feature a closed lacing system sewn directly onto the shoe’s vamp for an aesthetically pleasing and sleeker appearance.
Cap Toe Oxfords
The toe cap on these shoes adds a stylish touch that elevates an already classic Oxford shoe, making them a popular choice for formal events as they pair beautifully with suits or tuxedos. However, they can also make for a compelling business casual ensemble with dark jeans and a button-down shirt.
Black cap-toe Oxford shoes will work well with most of your clothing and make an ideal choice for formal events that call for dress shoes. Even casual outfits, like skinny jeans and tee shirts, can look smart with these elegant yet casual shoes.
Oxfords can be distinguished from other dress shoe styles by having laces. Shoes with monk straps or slip-on construction are not Oxford shoes and should not be worn to formal events. Oxfords often sport designs such as broguing or medallions; however, they can also be worn plain.
Saddle Oxfords
Saddle oxford shoes may no longer be fashionable but remain timeless classics. Perfect for dressing up jeans or khakis for an upscale business look, saddle oxford shoes can even be found at Cole Haan and Grenson, among other high-fashion brands.
These shoes resemble dress Oxfords, featuring leather uppers with white laces, yet are more casual. Spalding first introduced saddle oxfords in 1906, and they quickly became a favourite among young Americans due to being easy to pair with sportswear, pants or skirts – not unlike slipper-style evening pumps! Additionally, saddle oxfords come in various sizes and styles, from traditional to modern.
Two-Tone Spectator Oxfords
Spectator shoes (known as co-respondents in the UK) are an eye-catching style that adds vintage flair to your wardrobe. Low heels oxford shoes often feature black and white colours contrasting against each other, though shoemakers have created tonal variations within one colour hue for a more subdued appearance. Some manufacturers even experiment with adding suede of similar hue to create contrast through texture rather than only colour.
These shoes have quickly become staples for special occasion events. They pair beautifully with formal pants or suits – especially ones in colours matching suit fabrics – but are equally at home worn with dark denim jeans or suits with light-coloured shirts for more casual events.
Casual Oxfords
For centuries, oxfords have long been a classic shoe style that adds dapper appeal to formal, semi-formal and smart casual outfits. It is a must for any gentleman seeking an elegant and sophisticated appearance across his wardrobe.
Choose an Oxford with no embellishments, or opt for the more casual wingtip version with its extended top-toe cap that resembles an “M” or “W”. This style can also be referred to as brogue shoe.
Choose Oxfords as semi-formal shoes when attending semi-formal occasions; they’re also great for business casual outfits worn with khakis or jeans. Pair your Oxfords with a no-show or crew socks to show off the shoe, while colourful patterns or boldly coloured socks add flair and personality to an ensemble. Or try pairing your low heels oxford shoes with shorts for a summery, warm-weathered look!
