We all love to look dapper with polished black Oxford shoes. Anybody who is a fan of minimalist style would fall in love with them. But have you ever wondered how these Oxford shoes are made? We can tell you behind every polished pair lies a meticulous construction process. It is the artisans who put some magic into making your Oxford shoes timeless.
They look flawless and last for years. In fact, The men’s footwear market, including Oxford shoes, is booming and expected to hit $80 billion by 2025. Plus, you must have heard Ralph Lauren once say, "Shoes are the basis of fashion," and when it comes to classic style, Oxfords are unmatched. So, let us explore how Oxford shoes are constructed, their different types, and various color options.
Discover the process of Oxford shoe-making
Making a pair of Oxford shoes is not easy. It takes hard work, determination, and more than anything skillful hands. This detailed process combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to ensure quality. We have mentioned a step-by-step look below:
Step 1: Leather selection
The journey begins with selecting high-quality leather. The leather types can make or break the shoes’ appearance. Plus, it also determines the shoes’ longevity. Most craftsmen choose genuine leather or full-grain leather. These leather types are popular for their strength and ability to develop a beautiful patina. The leather is then cut into various pieces to make the upper part of the shoe.
Step 2: Cutting and skiving
After choosing the right types of leather, artists cut into patterns for the shoe’s different sections. They need to make elements like the vamp, quarters, and tongue. Then they will skive the leather edges which make it easier to stitch pieces together seamlessly.
Step 3: Construct the upper part
After the skiving process workers start stitching the leather pieces together to form the shoe’s upper. This is where the iconic closed lacing system of Oxford comes into play. They have to tightly stitch this part to give it a neat look. It gives the shoes their clean, polished look.
Step 4: Lasting the shoe
The stitched upper is then stretched over a ‘last,’ a mold that shapes the shoe. This step can define the shoe’s final fit and silhouette. The leather is pulled tight and secured. Why? It will ensure the shape holds during assembly.
Step 5: Attaching the sole
Once the craftsmen securely last the upper part, they attach the sole. High-quality Oxfords often use a Goodyear welt construction, where the upper, insole, and sole are stitched together. It can create a durable and water-resistant bond. This construction makes the shoe more durable and comfortable for easy wearing.
Step 6: Final touch
Lastly, the craftsmen add the finishing touches. This includes polishing the shoes to a shine, adding laces, and ensuring every detail meets the high standards of Oxford craftsmanship. A final quality check ensures the shoes are flawless before they enter the market.
Types of Oxfords
Oxford shoes come in several styles. They boast unique features to suit different occasions and needs. Here are the main types of Oxford shoes:
- Plain toe oxford
You might have seen this type on every formal occasion. Plain-toe shoes are the simplest and most classic style. They have a clean and minimalist look with no added details or embellishments. That is what makes them a timeless choice for formal events, business settings, or any semi-formal occasion.
- Cap-toe Oxford
If you need to add a little detail without compromising the minimalist look, cap-toe Oxfords are the best choice. They feature an extra piece of leather sewn across the toe box. It can create a cap-like appearance. This style strikes a perfect balance between formality and subtle detailing. You may often witness celebrity icons and politicians wear it for dressier occasions.
- Wingtip Oxford
Brogues are alternatively called the wingtip Oxford. They come with decorative perforations and a pointed-toe cap that extends along the sides of the shoe. They look like wings. This style adds a touch of flair and personality to your outfit. Hence, it can be a great choice for professional and semi-formal settings.
- Wholecut Oxford
This expensive type is made from a single piece of leather. The whole-cut Oxford is a sleek and sophisticated style known for its seamless look. It has minimal stitching and a polished finish. Plus, they are perfect for formal occasions where a refined and modern appearance is mandatory.
- Saddle Oxford
The saddle Oxford features a distinctive contrasting band of leather which is called the “saddle”. They are present across the middle of the shoe. This style offers a more casual look compared to other Oxfords. Hence, you might see more creative color combinations in this type. They are an ideal pair for Oxfords if you want to make your wardrobe a little funky.
- Balmoral Oxford
This type was named after the Balmoral Castle in Scotland. It closely resembles the plain-toe Oxford but with subtle stitching details. Balmoral Oxfords are traditionally associated with formal wear and are a great choice for black-tie events.
Color variations
When it comes to color variations, leather oxford shoes offer infinite options to suit any outfit and occasion. The classic black Oxford is a must-have for formal events and business settings. It brands its timeless, sleek look. You can easily pair it with a suit. If you're looking for something a bit more versatile, brown Oxfords come in various shades, from deep chocolate to lighter tans. Hence, they can be a good choice for formal and casual outfits.
But if you want some character to the outfit, burgundy or oxblood Oxfords add a pop of rich color without being too bold. And if you’re feeling adventurous, Oxfords in navy blue, gray, or even two-tone styles can make a stylish statement. No matter your preference, you will always find an Oxford shoe color that’s just right for you.
Ready to elevate your look with effortless charm? So, go ahead and add some variety to your shoe collection!
