What are Oxford Shoes?
Oxford shoes, which were among the first men’s laced shoes, were worn in the 17th century, often by men attending a university. Unlike their predecessors, early laced shoes were cut smaller than the foot, which gave men a mincing step. They were associated with foppery, fine dressing and a particular social class. Oxford shoes might also be called Balmorals, but because they were most associated with college men, the name Oxford shoes was born. Americans wouldn’t see many Oxford shoes until the early 19th century, and by then many modifications to the shoe had been made. Today the Oxford shoe is considered a men’s dress shoe that laces. It is usually made of leather or suede, but some less expensive or vegan varieties feature non-animal hide shoes. Oxford shoes are worn more by college graduates and less by the college set, where they would be considered overdressing. They also fit better than did the early varieties, so men, and sometimes women, don’t have the associated problems with
