When it comes to men’s footwear, two of the most popular styles are oxfords and brogues. Although they may look similar, they differ in many ways. Knowing the differences between the two types of shoes can help men make the right decision when dressing up. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of both oxfords and brogues and look at their characteristics, popularity, and how to style them.
What is an Oxford Shoe?
Oxford shoes were first developed in England in the early 1800s. Originally known as ‘balmorals’, this type of shoe was designed for noblemen to wear in the evening. However, it quickly gained popularity and is now a staple in many men’s wardrobe. An Oxford shoe is characterized by its closed lacing system, which consists of a single, uninterrupted strip of leather that is connected to the upper and sewn to the sole of the shoe. Oxfords are typically made from calfskin leather and range from black to other shades of brown.
The Origins of the Oxford Shoe
According to some accounts, Oxford shoes were first created in Scotland for the purpose of providing more protection for men’s feet. The idea was to create a type of shoe with a higher instep than what was available before that time. The design was quickly adopted by English shoemakers, who applied their own variations to it. Over the years, the style has evolved and is now considered to be a classic wardrobe staple.
Characteristics of an Oxford Shoe
An Oxford shoe typically has a low heel and a pointed toe, although some styles may have a slightly rounded toe. They usually feature a leather sole and are usually made from black or brown calfskin leather. Additional features include cap-toe detailing and capped lacing. This type of shoe is often seen with a wingtip or brogue design along the toes, which gives it a classic look.
What is a Brogue Shoe?
Brogue shoes are originally from Ireland and Scotland, where they were developed for outdoor activities like walking and hunting. This style of shoe has an unmistakable look due to its unique design elements, such as its pointed toe shape, its unique pattern of punched holes, and its serrated edges around the toe cap. Brogues are typically made using full-grain leather and usually feature either a wingtip or perforated pattern along the toe.
The Origins of the Brogue Shoe
Brogues originated in Ireland and Scotland as functional farm work shoes. The original design featured a single piece of leather stitched onto the sole of the shoe with holes punched into it to allow it to drain water. This shoe eventually evolved into a more refined style with decorative perforations and wingtip details.
Characteristics of a Brogue Shoe
Brogues typically feature an upper made from full-grain leather and often have decorative perforations along the sides or toes. Depending on the design, they may also feature wingtip detailing or have fringe-like accents along the edges. Brogues are usually seen with a flat or low heel and have a pointed or rounded toe. They vary in color and are usually found in shades of brown or black.
Differences Between Oxfords and Brogues
There are several differences between oxfords and brogues. One major difference is in the way they are constructed. Oxford shoes are made with a single piece of leather that is sewn to the sole, while brogues are usually made with multiple pieces of leather that are stitched together. Oxfords also typically feature plain leather with no decorative elements, while brogues usually have decorative perforations or wingtip detailing.
Popularity of Oxfords and Brogues
Both oxfords and brogues are popular choices for men’s footwear, although they are generally seen as different types of footwear for different occasions. Oxfords are generally seen as more formal and are often worn with suits or dress pants, while brogues are more casual and common for everyday occasions. Even though brogues are less formal than oxfords, they can still be dressed up with the right style of clothing.
Care and Maintenance for Oxfords and Brogues
Oxfords and brogues should be taken care of properly to ensure longevity of wear. This means cleaning them often, polishing them regularly, and storing them in a cool, dry place when not in use. When wearing them, avoid wet surfaces or other conditions that can lead to scratches or damage to the leather. Also, make sure to use the right type of polish for your specific type of shoe.
How to Style Oxfords and Brogues
Oxfords can be styled for either formal or casual looks depending on the outfit choice. For a formal look, oxfords should be paired with dress pants, dress shirts, and tailored blazers or suits. For a more casual look, they can be worn with jeans, chinos, or even shorts. Brogues can lean more towards the casual side due to their intricate design elements, but they can also be dressed up with suits or more formal ensembles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many differences between oxfords and brogues. Although they may look similar at first glance, they are clearly two distinct styles of footwear that are suited for different occasions. Knowing the characteristics of both styles and how to style them properly can help men choose the right shoe for any given situation.
