Oxford shoes
Do you want to buy a pair of Oxford shoes? With us you are in the right place!
Are you looking for the perfect pair of Oxford shoes to give your wardrobe an elegant and timeless touch? Look no further, because at The Garrison you've come to the right place! Our collection of Oxford shoes consists of many types of models, colors and materials, which match beautifully with our men's suits in the classic peaky blinders outfits. Whether you are looking for a classic pair for formal occasions or a fashionable variant to brighten up your everyday outfits, we have it all.
How long has the Oxford shoe been around?
The Oxford shoe has its origins in the 19th century, around the early 1800s. The design was inspired by a shoe model that was popular among students at the University of Oxford, hence the name "Oxford". Although the exact year of origin is not known, we can say that the Oxford shoe has been around for more than two centuries and has evolved into a timeless and sophisticated footwear that is loved all over the world.
What makes a shoe a real Oxford?
The secret lies in the distinctive details and construction. Oxford shoes, also known as Balmorals, have their origins in 19th century Scotland and Ireland and have since then become a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Let's take a closer look at the specific elements that make a shoe a true Oxford:
Closed lacing system: The most striking feature of an Oxford shoe is the closed lacing system. This means that the eyelets are attached to the quarters (the side panels of the shoe) in a closed loop, making them fall below the vamp (the front part of the shoe). This creates a sleek and streamlined look, which contributes to the formal appearance of the shoe.
Nose Styles: The toe cap of an Oxford shoe can vary in style, from simple and unadorned (plain toe) to more detailed versions with brogue-like embellishments (cap toe, wingtip). These toe cap styles can affect the level of formality of the shoe, with a simpler toe cap often being more appropriate for formal occasions.
Brogue details: Although brogue details are not always present on Oxford shoes, they can provide a more detailed and refined look. Brogues are the decorative perforations along the edges and seams of the shoe. They can vary in complexity, from simple perforations to intricate patterns that cover the entire shoe.
Materials: The choice of materials plays a major role in determining the quality and appearance of an Oxford shoe. High-quality leather, such as calfskin, is the most common choice for formal Oxford shoes, while suede and other materials can provide a more casual option.
Construction: The way an Oxford shoe is constructed is crucial to its comfort and durability. Goodyear Welt construction, a traditional method in which the sole and upper are stitched together with a strip of leather (the welt), is known for its excellent durability and ease of repair.
Are you looking for real Oxfords? Then quickly view our extensive collection at the top of this page. Are you ordering today? Then we will send all your new Oxfords tomorrow, so that you have a new pair of Oxfords from The Garrison at home super fast.
What is the difference between Oxfords and Derbys?
Oxfords and Derbys are two classic styles of men's shoes which are often confused due to their similarities, but they differ in their lacing system and construction. Oxfords are characterized by their closed lacing system, where the tongue sits under the front flap and the eyelets are sewn close together. This ensures a sleek and streamlined appearance. Derbys, on the other hand, have an open lacing system, where the tongue is exposed and the eyelets are attached to two separate flaps. This generally makes Derbys more comfortable and better suited to wider feet. While both styles are appropriate for formal occasions, Oxfords are generally considered more elegant and formal than Derbys.
Oxfords
Derby’s
On what type of occasions can you wear the Oxford shoes?
Oxford shoes are a versatile choice for both formal and semi-formal occasions, thanks to their elegant and sophisticated look. Men can wear them to business meetings, weddings, formal dinners and job interviews, where they make a professional and stylish impression. They are also suitable for semi-formal occasions such as cocktail parties and anniversary celebrations and can even be worn in a casual variant for everyday wear, depending on the work environment and of course your personal style. At The Garrison, we are happy to help you find the best Oxfords that match your personal style. Questions about our Oxfords? Please contact us and we will respond to you as soon as possible.
How are Oxfords made?
Making Oxford shoes is a complex and labour-intensive process that requires craftsmanship and attention to detail. Although modern technologies and mass production have somewhat simplified the process, there are still many handmade aspects involved, especially with high-quality Oxfords. Here is an overview of the main steps in making Oxford shoes:
Design and pattern: Before the production starts, the design of the Oxford shoe is worked out and the patterns for the different parts of the shoe are made. This includes the vamp (the front part), the quarters (the side panels) and the heel counter.
Learn to cut: Once the patterns are ready, the leather parts of the shoe are cut. This process, known as "clicking," is usually done using a sharp knife or computer-controlled cutting machine.
Preparing the parts: The cut leather parts are then prepared for assembly. This may include adding reinforcements, perforating brogue details and adding a lining.
Montage: The different parts of the shoe are sewn together, usually using a sturdy stitching machine. The upper of the shoe is formed first, with the vamp and quarters sewn together and the heel counter attached.
lasts: The shoe is then placed over a last (a wooden or plastic mold that mimics the shape of the foot) to form its final shape. This process can take several days depending on the material and desired fit.
Attaching the sole: There are several methods for attaching the sole to the upper. One of the most durable and traditional methods is the Goodyear Welt construction, which uses a strip of leather (the welt) to stitch the upper and sole together. This ensures a solid construction and makes it easy to replace the sole when it wears out.
Finish: The shoe is finished with various processes, such as polishing, coloring and waxing the leather to give it the desired shine and color. The insole and laces are also attached.
Quality control: Finally, every Oxford shoe is subjected to a thorough quality check to ensure that it meets expectations in terms of craftsmanship, fit and finish.
