Fabric: Oxford cloth is made with a basket weave that creates a thicker cloth which is much more resistant to wrinkling, rips, and wear than other dress shirt fabrics. This means you have to iron them less, and they last longer.
The real selling point is softness. Some brands are softer than others based on materials used in the fabric, and any washing process they put the shirts through before selling them. In general, you can depend on oxford cloth to have a softness similar to a good sweatshirt.
Maintenance Note: To keep oxford cloth soft, always machine wash on cold and air dry. This will keep the fibers from tightening up and getting a rougher feel.
Fit: Traditionally, oxford shirts have come in that boxier fit often referred to as “classic.” If you’re looking for that classic Ivy style look or just prefer a looser fit, then stick to classic cuts. However, oxford shirts are so popular and so common that you can get them in any fit imaginable. For a business setting or with formalwear, it is better to go with a slimmer cut.
Color: The three fundamental oxford colors are solid white, solid light blue, and a white with a light blue stripe that exposes the white fibers in the weave. You want to own at least one of these three options because they go with absolutely everything. From there, you can get oxfords in practically any color and pattern. Pastel pinks, yellows, and greens are part of the Ivy look and never a bad choice.
Pocket or No Pocket? Some brands put chest pockets on their oxford shirts and some don’t, it’s really as simple as that. Having a pocket is a more relaxed look. Not having a pocket is a little sleeker.
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