Italian Oxford is a style of dress shoe, typically made from calfskin leather, that originated in Italy. The style is characterized by its pointed toe, closed lacing, and a low heel. It is often considered to be a classic and timeless dress shoe and is a popular choice for both formal and casual occasions.
History of Italian Oxford
The Italian Oxford style of shoe was first popularized in the mid-19th century. At the time, it was considered to be a more modern style of shoe than the traditional English Oxford, which had a more rounded toe. The Italian Oxford quickly became a popular style of shoe for men, and it is still popular today.
Features of Italian Oxford
The Italian Oxford is characterized by its pointed toe, closed lacing, and a low heel. The toe of the shoe is usually rounded off, but still pointed. The closed lacing is done in a straight line, which is different from the criss-cross lacing of the English Oxford. The heel is usually quite low, usually around 1-1.5 inches in height.
Materials Used
Italian Oxford shoes are typically made from calfskin leather, although some styles may also be made from suede or other materials. The leather is often treated with a wax or oil finish to give it a glossy look. The soles are usually made from leather or rubber, and the linings are typically made from leather or a synthetic material.
Styles of Italian Oxford
Italian Oxford shoes come in a variety of styles, from classic and timeless to more modern and contemporary. Some of the more popular styles include the cap-toe Oxford, the wingtip Oxford, and the wholecut Oxford. There are also more modern styles such as the brogue Oxford and the chukka Oxford.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for Italian Oxford shoes is fairly straightforward. The leather should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and a leather cleaner, and the soles should be checked for wear and tear. If the leather starts to look dry or cracked, it can be treated with a leather conditioner. The shoes should also be stored in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Conclusion
Italian Oxford shoes are a classic and timeless style of dress shoe that is perfect for formal and casual occasions alike. The style is characterized by its pointed toe, closed lacing, and low heel, and is usually made from calfskin leather. There are many different styles of Italian Oxford shoes available, from classic to modern, and they should be cared for properly in order to maintain their appearance.
