Inspired by this, Brooks set about developing a type of shirt that used buttons to carry out the same task. Brooks noticed how English polo players pinned their collars down to keep them from flapping up during matches. This is thanks in no small part to Brooks Brothers, the oldest men’s clothing brand in the US. While the other three have since faded into sartorial obscurity, Oxford cloth has stood the test of time. Four of these new types of cloth were named after the most prestigious universities of the day: Yale, Harvard, Cambridge and Oxford. The Oxford shirt can be traced back to 19th century Scotland, where local mills were experimenting with different weaves and producing original fabrics. Those that do are inherently more casual, but smarter styles (most of which use collar stays to maintain their shape) still qualify as Oxford shirts if they’re cut from the right cloth. “There are different types, starting with the classic Oxford, then the finer Prince Oxford, which has a slight sheen and more conspicuous weave.”ĭespite often being referred to as an Oxford cloth button-down, not all are finished with a collar that fastens to the shirt.

“Oxford cotton is created by weaving the cotton yarn in a certain way giving a textured rather than smooth finish,” explains Jermyn Street shirtmaker Emma Willis. In fact, the moniker is taken from the fact that it’s made exclusively from a thick, woven fabric known as Oxford cloth. While the merits of owning an OCBD (or five) may come as no surprise, what might is that this staple has little to do with the English city with which it shares its name. Softer in its construction than a stiff dress shirt, and a tad more formal than your weekend flannel, the Oxford shirt is a solid, fail-safe option when you’re attempting to bridge the treacherous gap dividing smart and casual. But in case you needed further convincing, here’s everything you need to know about this menswear essential. It’s no overstatement to say that the OCBD is as near as you’ll get to the ultimate wardrobe cornerstone.

“An Oxford shirt can slot easily under a summer suit, or over a plain T-shirt be fitted or slightly oversized worn with the sleeves down to the wrists or rolled up, and in every case, it never looks out of place.” “It’s truly one of the most versatile and timeless pieces a man can have in his wardrobe,” says Chris Gove, creative director of British menswear brand Percival.

Washed red button up shirt