This awkward weather
time where it’s not quite warm enough to wear short sleeves, but you’re so sick
of sweaters has made me realize just how much I love oxfords. They will always
be my go to shirt. They look great with a skirt, shorts, jeans, khakis, or even
leggings. They can be dressed up with jewelry or dressed down with
layering. Truly the most versatile shirt
ever invented. My collection keeps growing, and I’m completely okay with that.
I may or may not be writing this post while sitting in a plaid oxford.
So while oxford
shirts seem to be the staple for every girls wardrobe today, they actually have
been around a lot longer than you would have thought. Considering I wear one
almost every day I thought I would dig up a little history about the classic
oxford button down.
The oxford shirt has long been an essential part of the
Ralph Lauren man’s wardrobe. Originally made in the 19th century by Scottish
fabric mills, the oxford shirt is one of four shirt fabrics named after
universities. The others —Yale, Cambridge and Harvard—have long since ceased to
be produced.
Defined strictly by the oxford weave, a basket-weave
pattern that combines two yarns woven lengthwise against a heavier yarn
crosswise (oftentimes in a different color to give it a distinctive pattern),
or vice-versa, the oxford shirt is easily recognizable. Although some of these
shirts are now made with other synthetic fabrics, the look and essence of the
original oxford is still present. Oxford shirts frequently, but not always, have
button-down collars.
Now associated
with the preppy Ivy League style, the oxford shirt was formerly a sport shirt
for polo players in England. Polo players would wear long-sleeved oxford shirts
for their matches, as the fabric was comfortable and breathable.
The oxford shirt has evolved into an important staple
piece in the Ralph Lauren world and is available every season in an array of
colors. Incredibly versatile, it is appropriate in many settings. The oxford
shirt is the perfect laid-back piece that conveys a sense of ease and comfort
while creating a sleek, clean look. It can also be dressed up with a repp tie
and a navy blazer for the ultimate in preppy attire, a true nod to the essence
of the Ralph Lauren lifestyle.
After reading that I’m not quire sure who’s
more obsessed with oxfords, you or me? These are my three favorite colors Ralph
Lauren makes. They are perfect in the winter under the sweater and great in the
summer with a pair of chinos.
I've come to the conclusion you can never go wrong adding another oxford to your wardrobe.
Always remember,
I've come to the conclusion you can never go wrong adding another oxford to your wardrobe.
Always remember,
xoxo
Shannon
Such a lovely post! I learned a lot...
ReplyDeletexx-
Cathleen
www.classycathleen.com
Thanks for the history! It's nice to learn little bits here and there about things in our everyday lives.
ReplyDeleteSarah
Sweet Spontaneity