Contrary to what you may believe, the Oxford shirt doesn’t actually have roots in the university city.
Its origins, instead, can be traced back to 19th century Scotland, when a mill invented four new weaves named after prestigious universities - Oxford, Cambridge, Yale and Harvard. And the shirt crafted using the Oxford textile has stood the test of time ever since.
Originally, the cloth was characterised by a specific basket weave construction that resulted in a rougher, more durable finish. Now, not every style is crafted with this specific type of fabric - but as long it’s a crisp, mid-heavyweight textile that holds its shape, has a button-down fastening and a pointed collar, it can enjoy classic Oxford status.
At first the invention was popular amongst British polo players for its breathable credentials, before being adopted by American university students who decided to wear it off the playing field as a fashion statement - so it’s no wonder the design is so oft associated with preppy style.
Now, the fit-of-the-moment is relaxed for an elevated yet easy-going feel. A smart-casual staple, worn with jeans, trousers or shorts, it’s a simple way to look put together with minimal effort required - although ironing is essential.
You can keep it collegiate with a classic by Gant or Ralph Lauren, go for a statement print à la Comme Des Garçons or invest in a timeless stripe for an easy win - which you can find in high street stores and luxury brands alike. To give you a helping hand, we’ve rounded up our favourites in the list below.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Garbstore Grande V2 Shirt Green Stripe
Independent Notting Hill boutique Couverture & The Garbstore stocks countless small brands that you’ll be hard pushed finding elsewhere, so it’s perfect for those who like to be ahead of the curve - and its own line of timeless Japanese-inspired classics is not to be missed, either.
This Oxford is a case in point. Crafted using a Japanese cotton, it’s cut to a relaxed sihouette with a curved hem and corozo nut buttons. The green and black stripe makes it a versatile staple that will go with almost anything.
Buy now £196.00, Garbstore
Gant Regular Fit Sunfaded Oxford Shirt
At a time, the only type of Oxford shirt you’d find at heritage American label Gant is the signature slim fit with logo embroidery. Now, alongside the classic range, they have more fashion forward iterations, too - just like this relaxed sunfaded design.
From the tonal logo embroidery to the patch pocket, this navy button down is an easy-to-wear option that can be easily dressed up or down.
Buy now £95.00, Gant
Jacquemus Simon logo-stripe cotton shirt
Jacquemus’ shirting makes its way on to my wishlist season after season - and SS23 is no exception. Featuring a delicate stripe that includes the creative director, Simon Porte Jacquemus’, signature, this shirt is sure to garner approval from even your most stylish friends.
Buy now £460.00, Matches
Comme Des Garçons Shirt + Brett Westfall Printed Cotton-Poplin Shirt
He’s not a regular guy, he’s a fun-ghi! Add a playful touch to your wardrobe with Comme Des Garçons’ playful collaboration with artist and designer Brett Westfall.
Buy now £355.00, Mr. Porter
Uniqlo X JW Anderson Oversized Shirt
You can count on Uniqlo for a quality designer collaboration. This shirt is part of the Japanese high street hero’s on-going partnership with London-based designer JW Anderson that always serves up a capsule of fashion-forward pieces available at wallet-friendly prices.
Oversized, with contrast sleeves and subtle logo embroidery, we want all three colourways that this piece comes in.
Buy now £34.90, Uniqlo
Marks & Spencer Pure Cotton Striped Oxford Shirt
High street hero M&S is always on hand for quality menswear that doesn’t break the bank. Constructed using a premium cotton, it’s a classic striped design that’s given a preppy touch with a subtle embroidered crest.
Buy now £40.00, Marks & Spencer
Arket Cotton Poplin Shirt
If it’s high-end high-street you’re looking for, Arket should be your first port of call. Offering a range of timeless classics in contemporary sihouettes and first-rate fabrics, you could dress head to toe in the brand’s pieces for a stylish look on the daily.
Wear this blue and white striped option with jeans and sneakers for a smart-casual dress code - or up the formal ante with trousers and loafers for date night.
Buy now £79.00, Arket
Cos Classic Buttoned Shirt
London-based yet Swedish-owned, Cos blends Scandi minimalism with a cool London sensibility for collections that every guy could do with in their wardrobe. We’re in love with this merlot oversized Oxford which features a pointed collar and a curved hem.
Buy now £69.00, Cos
Polo Ralph Lauren Button Down Oxford Shirt
A go-to for casual shirting, Ralph Lauren’s selection of Oxford shirts ensure all colourways and fits are taken care of - and you can’t go wrong with a classic blue. Featuring the brand’s iconic embroidered logo, it’s a preppy must-have.
Buy now £125.00, End
Ami Boxy Fit Shirt
Ami’s collections always come with the label’s signature Parisian-chic aesthetic. Whether you prefer the mainline or the brand’s Ami de Coeur elevated basics, all featuring the trademark heart logo, anything you choose will guarantee both comfort and style in one easy hit.
Every discerning gent needs a classic white Oxford in his wardrobe - and the mother of pearl buttons, boxy fit and curved hem take this one to the next level.
Buy now £240.00, Ami
