The History of Oxford Shoes
The History of Oxford Shoes
Oxford shoes are well known, and it’s because they offer quality and they possess a lovely backstory that makes people fall in love with these unique shoes. The industry didn’t put pen to paper and mention the Oxford shoe until the 1840s. It began when they claimed that these shoes would be the best for walking. However, it should be noted that Oxford’s have been speculated to be in existence as early as the 1600s. The history is surprisingly varied from how people think these shoes came into existence, and each story is as fascinating as the next.
What Oxford’s Looked Like When They First Began to Appear
In the 1800s, these shoes were now tied at the front and had three to four holes. The shoes and boots that came before it was trimmed to be medium-sized, and they called it the Oxonian. However, it had slots and would not have laces. As it was considered to need an upgrade, the closure became centred, and the laces and holes appeared. In addition to this, it became a shoe instead of a boot which created a more comfortable look and feel.
An Alternate Version of The Shoe’s History
The other history claiming Oxford shoes is that they have emerged later in Balmoral Castle. It was speculated that Prince Albert would invent them and wore lace-up boots that made hunting easier. For inside tasks, however, it was said that he wore Oxford shoes, and that Balmoral is another word for Oxford. Because of the similarities in the words the origin has been the subject of many speculations.
The truth, however, is that while Oxford didn’t gain popularity overnight, it was imposed gradually and was immediately worn by both men and women in the 19th century. Young people jumped on the trend first, with some men thinking the laces were far too feminine and taking a long time to adjust to the new look. However, when colours were added, things changed.
Oxford’s Have Scottish Roots?
Another theory states that they originated in Scotland, and it was their culture that named it after the Balmoral Castle. They also appeared in Ireland but didn’t reach Oxford University until they became popular in these two countries first. Many support this theory, and there have been many speculations made over the years. The debates are still occurring to this day in some parts of the world. They say that the Balmoral is entirely different from the design of the English that uses the term. Whatever you believe, the theory is certainly interesting to think about. However, it is an interesting note that it is highly regarded that the shoe also didn’t make it to America until the 1800s.
Did Students make these Shoes?
Another theory postulates that the shoes trace their history to the university of the same name. It is additionally believed that the shoes were made in the school by students who found them easier to wear. Another unique fact to note that this is one of the most popular and most loved theories about the origin of these shoes. Everyone has found this to be a fun theory for many about students not wanting to wear the fashion of the time, so they created their own to be more comfortable and make their fashion statement. However, while this theory is one of the most accepted, there are still other interesting theories.
New Evidence on Lacing and Court Life
Evidence has been revealed that buckle makers would have strap boots made for the court in the early eighteenth century. However, that wasn’t what was called for informal occasions. As such, men began turning to laced shoes. As the styles became more low-cut and added a shorter vamp, the new system was more exact. This was a good option. It differs from how these shoes look now as they have adopted a five to six eyelet option that looks the best as formal evening wear for both men and women. Another plus? They were comfortable enough to keep you on your feet all night.
Changing Centuries and Gaining New Attention
In the 1900s, the shoe became a staple in elegance and timelessness. Women began to model the shoe and use them for sports use. As they continued to gain in popularity, dual colours were added, and it gained more customers than it had before. Because of this, it was able to move between the younger generation and the older one. When this occurred, both men and women began modelling the shoes, and as a result, they were seen on multiple occasions and became a fashion staple in the modern world in various countries. Now it is common to see them everywhere and in multiple situations. In recent years, it has been common to see these shoes in formal and informal settings.
Modern Oxford’s and Their Impact
Today’s main focal point of these shoes is that they have a low heel and showcase an exposed ankle. While retaining these classic points, you will find that the shoes have evolved into new styles and sub-styles, including a cap toe. The saddle option also has a fine strip of leather that runs across your shoe in a different colour, so you stand out. Many love the colour combination as it creates a look that is both elegant but stylish at the same time.
A Varied History with a Great Story
No matter what version of the history you believe, each one comes from cultures worldwide with compelling reasons behind them. From kings to students, Scotland to England, each story is as unique as the shoe itself. However, it can be agreed that these shoes are a great staple of fashion and remain iconic to this very day. Men, women, and children everywhere wear them every day to look and feel their best. Now that you know the plethora of different stories behind the Oxford shoe, which account will you choose to believe?