Oxford shoes are the hallmark of classic men’s footwear. Recognizable by their closed lacing system, sleek silhouette and low heel, they exude elegance and refinement. Originally developed in the 1800s as a comfortable alternative to high boots worn by Oxford University students, these shoes have evolved into essential pieces in every gentleman’s wardrobe.
Today, there are various types of Oxford shoes, from plain toe to wholecut and wingtip styles, offering different levels of formality and flair. Whether you're dressing for a wedding, a boardroom or a smart-casual dinner, well-made Oxfords seamlessly elevate your look.
Because of its essential, timeless and versatile distinctives, many shoe brands now cater to different needs, tastes and price points. This article will save your time finding the right pair and making a worthwhile investment, with the best Oxford shoemakers across all tiers.
Affordable but Stylish Oxfords
You don’t need to break the bank to own a stylish pair. These brands offer high-quality Oxford shoes with great value for money, ideal for first-time buyers, younger professionals or anyone who wants budget-friendly but reliable shoes.
1. Hockerty
Hockerty stands out in the affordable Oxford category by offering fully custom-made dress shoes at entry-level prices. Unlike off-the-rack pairs, every Hockerty Oxford is crafted to fit your exact measurements, ensuring a tailored fit that’s perfect for your feet. This is a smart solution for those with non-standard sizes, hard-to-fit shapes or wider feet.
Design Your Black Leather Oxfords
With complete personalization, you can choose your favorite leather type, color, sole and even add a pattern. Whether you're going for a minimalist plain toe Oxford or a bolder wingtip brogue, Hockerty lets you design shoes that match your style and needs. Want the look and feel of bespoke without the luxury price tag? This is the option!
Charcoal Double-Breasted Suit with Black Shirt
Products in the outfit
Credit: Emanuele De Martino
2. Florsheim
A heritage American brand founded in 1892, Florsheim has long been known for creating accessible yet stylish footwear. Their Oxfords combine classic silhouettes with comfort technologies, like cushioned insoles and flexible rubber outsoles, making them suitable for long office days or events. From cap toe leather Oxfords to more casual hybrid models, their shoes are diverse but don’t strain your wallet.
3. Thursday Boot
While Thursday Boot is mostly recognized for its rugged boots, their handcrafted Oxford shoes deserve just as much attention. Designed with a modern man’s lifestyle in mind, their Oxfords are versatile enough to wear from work to weekend, with durable soles and Goodyear welt construction that promises longevity.
Expect a slightly more relaxed silhouette and textured finishes, making Thursday’s Oxfords ideal for smart casual or business casual outfits.
4. Johnston & Murphy
Johnston & Murphy is a name that’s been synonymous with American craftsmanship and sophistication for over 170 years. With a legacy of designing shoes for U.S. presidents, the brand delivers both style and dependability in their Oxford collections. Their range includes classic cap toe and plain toe Oxfords, offered in both leather and suede variations.
What makes Johnston & Murphy stand out is that their products come equipped with memory foam footbeds, flexible soles and lightweight construction, offering great comfort for professionals who usually commute or stand for long hours.
5. Clarks
Though primarily known for their iconic desert boots, Clarks also excels in producing affordable and versatile Oxfords. Since 1825, the brand has always prioritized comfort, using unique techniques such as Cushion Plus™ footbeds and ergonomic soles.
With smooth leather uppers and flexible rubber soles, their Oxford models are perfect for men seeking understated elegance with an everyday appeal.
6. Meermin
Meermin, based in Mallorca, Spain, brings a touch of European refinement and sharp structure to the affordable Oxford market. Known for its elegantly slim profiles, beautiful patinas and Goodyear welt construction, Meermin offers shoes that look far more expensive than they are.
While the shoes do require a break-in period, they reward wearers with long-lasting quality, high-end leathers and impeccable finishing, all at a mid-to-low price point.
7. Beckett Simonon
If you’re looking for premium-quality Oxfords at accessible prices, Beckett Simonon delivers. This direct-to-consumer brand handcrafts each pair in small batches using full-grain Italian leather and Blake stitch construction — a combination rarely found in this price range.
Their made-to-order model helps reduce waste and lets them offer more competitive pricing. While you’ll have to wait several weeks to receive your shoes, the result is a pair that feels custom, intentional and remarkably well-made.
Mid-Range Oxford Shoes Brands
When you're ready to step up from entry-level footwear, mid-range Oxford shoes offer a perfect balance between exceptional construction, refined aesthetics and long-term value. These brands are the favourite choices for professionals, stylish gentlemen and shoe lovers looking to build a smart collection.
8. Allen Edmonds
Allen Edmonds has built its reputation on premium quality and a classic American look. Each pair is crafted in the USA using Goodyear welt construction, which allows the shoes to be resoled multiple times, extending their lifespan for years, even decades. Their Oxford lineup includes iconic models like the Park Avenue and Fifth Avenue, both known for their sleek cap toe design and polished finish.
9. Loake
Hailing from Northamptonshire, England, the heart of British shoemaking, Loake combines over 140 years of expertise with a variety of options that suit both purists and modern dressers. Their 1880 Legacy range offers meticulously crafted Oxfords with premium calf leather and traditional styling.
Prominent face in the mid-range segment, but Loake also produces cheaper models (around $200) that still maintain great quality and detail, making the brand a solid bridge between affordable and premium shoes.
10. Magnanni
If you're looking for sleek, sophisticated Spanish design, Magnanni is a standout, offering hand-burnished leathers and fluid silhouettes. This brand often blends formal aesthetics with a contemporary feel, making their shoes perfect for fashion-forward dressers or men who want something beyond the traditional design. Expect high-gloss finishes, fine stitching and elegant last shapes that flatter the foot.
11. Morjas
Morjas is a Swedish brand that has gained international attention for its minimalist design and focus on high-quality craftsmanship. The shoes are made in Almansa, Spain, a region renowned for fine footwear production and offer excellent value for their level of quality and detail.
Morjas’ Oxford shoes feature sleek silhouettes, premium leather and durable construction. With a refined Scandinavian aesthetic, they’re perfect for men who appreciate clean lines and understated luxury.
12. Yearn
Yearn is a lesser-known but highly praised brand among shoe enthusiasts for offering premium-level quality at mid-tier prices. Handmade in China with meticulous attention to detail, Yearn shoes are often compared to models that cost significantly more from better-known Western brands. Their Oxford shoes boast elegant lasts, hand-polished leather uppers and are crafted with closed-channel stitching on the soles, a detail normally reserved for higher-end shoemakers.
13. Cobbler Union
Based in Atlanta and crafted in Spain, Cobbler Union was founded to bridge the gap between mass-market shoes and high-end luxury. Their Oxfords combine classic styling with a bold, refined character. Each pair features Goodyear welt construction, full-grain leather and attention to ergonomic design for better foot support. Popular models like the Noah II or Louis reflect their commitment to comfort, aesthetics and long-term durability.
Classic Luxury Oxfords for Men
What defines high-end Oxfords is that they are pieces of heritage, artistry and prestige. These names below are celebrated for their premium leathers, hand-finishing techniques and time-honored craftsmanship.
14. George Cleverley
Based in London’s Mayfair, George Cleverley is a British shoemaker that has long been the go-to for bespoke footwear connoisseurs and celebrities alike. Each pair is a testament to old-school shoemaking, known for its elegant chisel-toe shape and impeccable leather selection.
With a client list that has included Sir Winston Churchill, David Beckham and Jason Statham, Cleverley Oxfords embody quiet sophistication and tailored charm. Their custom and ready-to-wear lines offer flawless proportions and a uniquely British silhouette.
15. Church’s
One of the most recognizable names in luxury shoes, Church’s is a British institution with roots dating back to 1873. Now owned by the Prada Group, Church’s combines classic English craftsmanship with a slightly fashion-forward touch.
Their iconic Consul and Diplomat Oxfords are known for their sleek design, high-gloss finish and enduring build. Expect hand-polished calfskin, full leather linings and a silhouette that pairs effortlessly with both suits and modern tailoring.
16. Crockett & Jones
If it’s good enough for James Bond, it’s good enough for your wardrobe. Crockett & Jones has earned a royal reputation for its world-class craftsmanship and Goodyear welted construction, all produced in Northampton, England.
Their Oxfords, such as the Hallam or Audley, are praised for their sleek lines, durable build and exceptional leather quality. Whether you’re heading to the office or the red carpet, these shoes deliver high-class confidence and long-lasting comfort.
17. John Lobb
A name synonymous with shoemaking excellence, John Lobb has been crafting bespoke footwear since 1866. Today, their ready-to-wear line (produced in collaboration with Hermès) offers a near-bespoke experience at the highest tier of luxury.
Their Oxfords are the result of flawless finishing, premium leathers and timeless lasts that offer both comfort and elegance. The City II line delivers shoes that are as much a collector’s item as they are daily wear.
18. Gaziano & Girling
One of the newest yet most respected names in British luxury footwear, Gaziano & Girling brings a modern aesthetic to traditional craftsmanship. Their products are handmade in England and popular for their sharp lines, slim waists and contemporary last shapes.
Gaziano & Girling Oxfords feature exotic leathers, hand-burnished patinas and meticulous detailing, bringing up shoes that are equally at home in bespoke tailoring shops and luxury fashion circles.
That's about the best and leading Oxford shoe brands. Before we move to the next section, let's review all of them through a summary table:
| Segments | Brands |
|---|---|
| Affordable | Hockerty |
| Florsheim | |
| Thursday Boot Co. | |
| Johnston & Murphy | |
| Clarks | |
| Meermin | |
| Beckett Simonon | |
| Mid-Range | Allen Edmonds |
| Loake | |
| Magnanni | |
| Morjas | |
| Yearn | |
| Cobbler Union | |
| High-end | George Cleverley |
| Church’s | |
| Crockett & Jones | |
| John Lobb | |
| Gaziano & Girling |
Everything to Know about Men's Oxford Shoes
Basically, Oxfords are the classic dress shoes which feature a closed lacing system; they vary in many different versions while maintaining the defining formality and elegance. If you want to learn about this timeless design, we introduce more details in the article What Are Oxford Shoes?. And don't worry, we still take you through all the must-know information, ensuring you always look sharp with Oxfords.
Types of Oxford Shoes
The variety of Oxford shoes significantly lies in design, formality and personality. Here are the most popular types that we must have heard of when it comes to fashion:
- Plain Toe: The most minimalist and formal type. No stitching or detailing on the toe, making them ideal for black-tie events, formal business settings or weddings.
- Cap Toe: Characterized by a horizontal stitched “cap” across the toe box, this is the most common and versatile Oxford style.
- Brogue: Defined by decorative perforations (broguing) across the shoe. These can vary from subtle to bold and add a touch of personality but still maintain a polished look.
- Wingtip: A subcategory of brogues, they feature a W-shaped toe cap that extends along the sides of the shoe, often combined with perforations.
- Wholecut: Made from a single piece of leather with no seams, resulting in a sleek and luxurious finish.
- Saddle: Featuring a contrasting panel of leather (the “saddle”) across the instep, these are less formal, owning a sporty and vintage feel.
- Kiltie: These have a fringed tongue overlay covering the laces. Less common and more expressive, they bring character to a classic silhouette.
Oxford vs Derby: What’s the Difference?
Though similar in appearance, Oxford and Derby shoes differ in construction and formality. This comparison will help you distinguish between them at a glance:
| Feature | Oxfords | Derbies |
|---|---|---|
| Lacing System | Closed lacing (eyelets stitched under the vamp) | Open lacing (eyelets stitched on top of the vamp) |
| Fit | Snug, sleek, contours the foot more closely | More adjustable and forgiving for wider feet |
| Formality | More formal: business, weddings, black tie | Slightly more casual: casual and everyday wear |
| Combination | Clean and elegant look: Suits, formalwear, dress uniforms | Relaxed look: Chinos, trousers, blazers and less formal settings |
If you're investing in your first pair of dress shoes, Oxfords are the more versatile choice, especially for formal occasions. Derbies make a great follow-up for more flexibility and comfort.
What to Wear with Oxford Shoes
Oxford shoes are known for their classic versatility, but it’s essential to consider appropriate pieces with suitable occasions for an impressive look. Let’s discover how to wear them confidently across different dress codes:
Formal Wear
Oxford shoes, especially plain toe or cap toe styles, in black leather, are a go-to for formal occasions. Pair them with:
- Business suits in navy, charcoal or black.
- Tuxedos or black-tie attire for weddings or galas.
- Double-breasted suits or formal three-piece ensembles.
Wholecut Oxfords also make a powerful formal statement due to their clean, seamless design.
Ash Gray Suit with Patterned Tie
Products in the outfit
Credit: Alberto Vanin
Business Casual
Opt for dark burgundy cap toe or brogue Oxfords to balance professionalism and approachability. They work well with:
- Tailored dress trousers or chinos.
- Button-down shirts or knit polos.
- Unstructured blazers or soft-shouldered sport coats.
For more relaxed office environments, brown oxbloods or derby-style brogue shoes are also a solid alternative.
Renato Amburgo with Hockerty's Burgundy Brogue Oxfords
Smart Casual
The perfect way to dress up without feeling overdressed. For a refined yet relaxed outfit, wear:
- Denim jeans (avoid rips and overly distressed styles).
- Unbuttoned shirts, crewneck tops, turtlenecks or knitwear.
- Casual blazers or bomber jackets in neutral or earth tones.
Slate Linen Shirt with Faded Blue Jeans
Products in the outfit
Credit: Guy George
Linen White Shirt with Beige Pants
Products in the outfit
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Oxford Shoes for Men
What are the best Oxford dress shoe brands?
The best Oxford dress shoe brands range from Hockerty, Allen Edmonds, and Loake to Crockett & Jones and John Lobb, depending on your budget. Hockerty offers custom-made styles at an entry-level price, while Allen Edmonds and Loake strike a great balance between quality and cost. For luxury, George Cleverley and John Lobb deliver hand-finished, heritage-quality Oxfords.
What is the most formal Oxford shoe?
Plain Toe and Wholecut Oxfords in black leather are the most formal styles. These designs feature minimal or no stitching and a sleek silhouette, making them ideal for black-tie events, business suits, and formal occasions.
Which is better, Oxford or Derby?
Oxfords are more formal, while Derbies are more casual and comfortable. Choose Oxfords for suits and events, thanks to their sleek closed lacing. Derbies, with open lacing, offer a roomier fit, ideal for wider feet or less formal settings.
What Oxford shoes are best for wide feet?
Brands like Hockerty, Allen Edmonds, and Beckett Simonon offer wide-width options or custom sizing, making them ideal for men with broader feet. Hockerty’s made-to-measure approach ensures a perfect fit, while Allen Edmonds provides E and EE widths in many styles.
Which Oxford shoe brands offer customization?
Hockerty stands out for full customization, allowing you to personalize the leather, color, sole, lacing, and even pattern. Beckett Simonon and Cobbler Union also offer made-to-order options with unique finishes and sizing.
Blue & Brown Brogue Oxford Shoes in Suede & Leather
Which Oxford shoes are good for first-time buyers?
Hockerty, Thursday Boot Co., and Florsheim are great for first-time buyers due to their affordable pricing, comfort, and stylish offerings. Hockerty even lets you design your own pair, which is perfect if you’re still figuring out your style preferences.
Are expensive Oxford shoes worth it?
Yes, premium Oxford shoes are often worth the investment if you value craftsmanship, longevity, and comfort. High-end brands like John Lobb or Crockett & Jones use full-grain leather, Goodyear welting, and hand-finishing—making them not just stylish but also highly durable and resoleable.
Which Oxford shoes are best for business casual wear?
Cap Toe or Brogue Oxfords in brown or burgundy are ideal for business casual outfits. Brands like Loake, Banana Republic, or Meermin offer refined yet versatile shoes that pair well with chinos or dress trousers.
Can you wear Oxford shoes every day?
Yes, with the right sole and care, Oxford shoes can be worn daily. Look for rubber-soled options or more casual models from brands like Beckett Simonon, Clarks, or Thursday Boot Co., and be sure to rotate them to preserve their shape.
