Despite the name, the Oxford Shirt originated in Scotland along with three other types – the Cambridge, Harvard and Yale. The Oxford is the only one that’s endured. It is typified by a basket weave pattern that crosses two yarn strands and gives a textured finish, and often includes a button-down collar and long sleeves.
Many men find the sheer plethora of shirt types out there daunting and thus, choosing the right style and then styling it becomes a great challenge. Oxford shirts, however, bridge the smart-casual divide, making them the perfect apparel for everything from work to social gatherings. Check out our four top ways to style this iconic shirt.
Wear with a Jumper
This modern-casual look is really popular and for good reason, not least because you can hide a shoddy ironing job. Ideally wear a light shirt with a darker, chunky v-neck jumper. This combination is the perfect option for chilly days. Leave your shirt un-tucked so a couple of inches poke out at the bottom and if you pull up the sleeves, roll the shirt sleeves over the jumper.
With Chinos
The ultimate in a preppy look is an Oxford shirt with chinos. Go for a pastel, neutral shade of trousers and a slightly darker shirt, then tuck your shirt in but still leave it a bit baggy. This look can be worn practically anywhere, whether it’s a summer BBQ, a cricket match or to work on a summer’s day. Use this exposed look for your best quality oxford shirts, like mens Farah shirts from http://ejmenswear.com/brands/farah.
With a Casual Suit
Gone are the days when you couldn’t wear an Oxford with a suit, although the suit should ideally be on the casual side and preferably a slim fit. In fact, when you use contrasting colours for your Oxford shirt and informal suit, the resulting combo is a great wear-anywhere look.
Open Over a T-shirt
This look has traditionally been left to either skater-grunger types or men who’s shirts no longer do up over their belly’s, but these days, if done well, it can be a real style statement. Choose a plain, white round neck t-shirt and make sure the it fits well. A small shirt may look like you can’t do it up and a large one will make you look like a teenage skater.
Leave a Reply