The Obtainer - 8/31/22, Wednesday
↦ Who Makes the Best Oxford Shirt?
Wednesday,August 31st Edition
Anyone else really nerd out about the fit and details of a well fitting oxford cloth button-down? Good, you’re in luck today.
- Leon Hedgepeth, Shopping Editor ⋯ @leonhedgepeth
Good/Better/Best
Oxford Shirts
We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Few things are as essential in a man's closet than a great-fitting, reliable oxford cloth button-down. The OCBD has been around for over 125 years and has seen several iterations of fits, fabrics and colors, but the two most iconic are white and blue. As men's fashion gradually strays away from “luxury streetwear”, it's swinging back to more classic prep/Ivy styles, just in reworked renditions for today. Items like relaxed chinos, sturdy polo rugbys and oxfords are being worn in innovative ways that they have not been before, creating refreshing juxtaposed looks. The fit has always been vital with an OCBD—but because there are no rules, don't be afraid to play around with proportion and size to create a new silhouette for your outfit.
Of course, the signature characteristic of an OCBD is the oxford cloth fabric itself, woven with a textural basket weave that makes it both soft and durable. The real charm of this shirt though is the sporty and casual collar roll formed by the button-secured collar points. The best ones have a roomy, reinforced chest pocket, pleated sleeves and old school details like a box pleat on the back to ensure an ease of movement. There are a lot of great brands making quality oxfords that cover the entire gamut of price points. Depending on how often and where you'll be wearing them though, how much you decide to spend is purely up to you. We're here to help point you to the ones worth your money.
Fits a bit on the slimmer side (we suggest sizing up)
Price point allows you to stock up on multiple colors
Fabric is thinner than most oxford cloth, but made from a slow-spun cotton yarn for added durability
The smaller collar doesn't sit up high, so this will be worn more casually (not the best option with a tie)
Slim-fit Japanese Oxford shirt, $75 by Everlane
Hand-sewn in Houston, Texas
A slightly shorter shirt tail makes wearing it untucked look less sloppy
All shirts are made-to-order and offered in traditional shirting sizes so you're guaranteed a perfect fit
The price is quite steep (it is made-to-order), so buying in bulk is probably out of the question
1883 Oxford shirt,$245 by Hamilton
A perfect marriage of formal and lived-in thanks to a proprietary wash
Features a button on the chest pocket to ensure your EDC is secure
Back collar button keeps your collar standing strong and your tie from slipping
Although the shirt says “slim”, it does fit on the classic side so we'd recommend keeping your original size
Favorite oxford shirt, $128 by Todd Snyder
The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.
A sleek minimalist gym bag made to look clean, but carry your dirty workout gear.
$95 / $61by Rains
As watches get smaller, this classic rectangular timepiece looks like something you found at a vintage shop.
$215 / $161by Seiko
After you're done burning your candle, it turns into a drinking glass. The packaging even comes with a cocktail recipe.
$36 / $25by Ranger Station
Handmade in Mexico, these huaraches are the perfect shoe to accompany a weekend getaway.
$99 / $69.30 (w/code LABORDAY30)by Yuketen
A handsomely rugged pair of shorts that wears like your favorite basketball shorts.
$39.99 / $29.99(w/code SHOPNOW)by Wallace & Barnes
This multi-purpose bench can be placed in your entry room, used for plants or even at the dinner table.
$395 / $295 by Burrow
Denim season 👖
August 27