An iconic shoe style made by Barker at the Earls Barton factory is the Oxford shoe, a Goodyear welted classic that is regarded as the ideal men’s dress shoe no matter the occasion. Characterised by a closed lacing system with a low heel and exposed ankle, the Oxford style offers a sleek silhouette that accompanies most if not all formalwear and suiting.
An English classic, the leather Oxford shoe made by Barker and other shoemakers around the world has evolved from a half boot called the ‘Oxonian’ which dates back to 1825. The Oxonian boot was fashionable to wear by students on campus at the famous Oxford University and has developed to be a gentleman’s wardrobe staple available in several style variations including the plain, toe cap and whole cut Oxford shoes.
The Oxford shoe is a versatile formal shoe that is worn as a dress shoe or casually with denim jeans our chino trousers depending on the occasion. The current Barker collection includes an extensive range of Oxford shoes featured in the BarkerTech, Handcrafted, London and Professional collections with the most popular being the Arnold, Burford (Dainite sole), Malvern and Winsford styles.
The men’s black Oxford is often the first choice as a business shoe but due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for the brown Oxford shoe is evident especially in calf leather or suede as this can be dressed up or down when they return to the office happens. Within the Barker collection, several shades of brown are favourites in the Oxford style such as Cedar, Antique Rosewood and Dark Walnut especially when contrasting colour/materials are featured in the shoe design.
When an Oxford features brogue detailing it is generally referred to as a brogue but it’s important to note a brogue can be made in the Oxford (closed lacing system) or Derby (open lacing system) style.
The Barker Oxford brogue is available in several of the Barker ranges in particular the Professional collection where you’ll discover the Albert, Alfred, Malton, Mirfield and Hampstead styles. A recent development in the Professional collection is the Suit Sneaker which features a lightweight EVA sole and features the Coleman Oxford brogue in Black and Dark Walnut Calf.
Additional Barker Oxford brogues that offer a classic Country aesthetic are the Charles, Station (Barker of Earls Barton Archive collection) and Westfield styles. The Barker Handcrafted collection includes the Earls Barton village shoemakers most prestigious shoe designs including the Lerwick, Newchurch and Newmarket Oxford semi brogue styles.
The best selling Oxford brogue and Wedding shoe favourite is the Barker McClean, made on the 443 last from a premium calf with contrast suede or laser paisley detailing. The McClean in Cedar Calf / Navy Suede comes highly recommended as does several of the other Creative collection Oxford styles including the Grant, Jax and Valiant Oxford brogues.
It’s important to note the range of Barker Oxford shoes and Oxford brogues are available in several fittings and made on various last shapes which should be taken into account when selecting to invest in any pair of Barker shoes as it makes all the difference to the size and overall fitting. Barker shoes are made to last therefore making sure they fit well at the start will only add to the lifespan of the shoes.