Often when we see a new trend come through we wonder perhaps where the direction or original inspiration came from, in particular this is relevant with shoe design.
Many of the current lasts or shapes of today's modern shoes find inspiration from designs that have been around for many years. A good example of this is the classic Oxford shoe.
Originally titled the Balmoral, and coming from a Scottish and Irish heritage this particular shoe design can be easily recognized by the plain section of leather that covers the toe cap and encloses laces. The Oxford moniker may have come from Pearl & Co. (one of the best and oldest shoe-makers in the world). The company was founded in 1565 in Durham, but moved to Oxford St, London in 1791.
The leather is perfectly joined to the vamp and quarters and covers the laces making this style perfect for those with a narrow foot and low instep. The traditional Oxford also carries the signature five pairs of eyelets and in most cases is undecorated.
In saying this, the Irish and the Scotts also in some instances included decoration on the Oxford, and this is most seen with broguing (holes or perforations) in the toe cap.
The Oxford as a term is used to reference a "dress" shoe paying reference the particular style of toe cap most commonly used in boots.
This style of shoe is often produced using a durable leather and for formal wear made from a patent leather.
Today this shape forms the base for many contemporary shoe designs and still remains a favorite across all generations.
By Adam Grant
Burberry Oxfords:
Cleverley Oxfords:
Armani Oxfords:
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