STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

jmango · Dooney & Bourke

how do you choose an oxford shoe?

Boots · Gucci

I get it. I always feel too manish in oxfords, but my style is casual (jeans.) I think they look great on people with a more feminine/girly style. It gives the shoes something to play off of.

I like the light colored ones you posted the best.

Yana · Dooney & Bourke

I love Oxfords, planned to buy now, when they're so hot, but...the budget didn't allow...so, I'm still planning. Actually I never thought of how it makes the foot seem longer, since I wear size 6 & it's never been a concern of mine, I always choose by design & look only. WOuld go for something original, like those cut outs - seem very cool! But I'd try on my foot to see how light stone or darker concrete color would match my skin.

Hermes

I like the cutout ones too, and agree with pairing them with a feminine look. I think they would also look really cool with some wide legged flowy menswear inspired pants, or even cropped menswear inspired pants (I'm envisioning pinstripes.)

t_838fro · Nine West

I love the darker brown shade the best. They are super classic :) Maybe you can pair it with a floral dress and some tights? I don't know how cold it is where you are at, but maybe it will work?

pollyjean23 · Marc Jacobs

I have felt the same trepidation about buying oxfords. I don't have a very feminine style, so I think that's the culprit. I like the idea of unconventional ones, like the cutouts. Oxfords in unique colors can be fun (like a baby blue or something).

TheLovelyLady71 · Hermes

I LOVES Oxfords, for WHATEVER reason!! I think I might own a pair, and wear them w/pants.

On the other hand, I LOVE the 1st two pairs, esp. the brown ones! NICE!

Elle · Hermes

I like all the options you posted! However, depending on how much rain/snow you get this time of year (if any) the cutout pair may be the least practical?

I love oxfords, really I'm just glad for an alternative to all the other 'trendy' shoes that have 4 inch heels! I'm short and curvy too, and I like wearing mine with skinny jeans cuffed/pegged to the ankle, narrow menswear trousers (mine are a windowpane plaid) also cuffed to the ankle, and with dresses and tights. There's something about showing the ankle that feminizes the look a bit, IMO, and keeps it from looking too literal.

My advice would be to check Etsy/Ebay for a vintage pair in your size. Look for a men's pair as well, since I think your size is maybe just barely large enough for that? Jcrew also made a nice pair, lots are available on Ebay. I think the key is to make sure they're not too wide-looking and the sole isn't too chunky (all your options meet these criteria well). Then you're pretty good to go!