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13 Best Oxford Shirts for Men, Tested and Reviewed
If there’s one piece of clothing that will never go out of style, this is it.
Every man should be an Oxford man. And if that sounds like a quote straight out of The Great Gatsby, then good on you for paying attention in English class. (It’s not, but close enough.) However, we don’t mean that kind of Oxford man. No, we’re talking about oxford shirts—one of the most versatile pieces of clothing you can have in your closet. Dating back to the 1800s (you can thank John E. Brooks, whose grandfather founded Brooks Brothers, for its creation), the oxford shirt has become the quintessential staple of the distinguished gentleman’s wardrobe.
Unlike a regular dress shirt, the oxford has a buttoned-down collar that stays put all day long. It can be dressed up with a blazer, linen pants, and nice shoes, or it can be dressed down with jeans, khakis and loafers, or sneakers. The oxford shirt is a favorite among well-dressed men because it lacks the feel of a dress shirt yet it still looks formal and can be worn just about anywhere—and we mean anywhere. So, to help you find the right oxford for your personal style preferences, our fashion experts tried out a bunch of them to compile this list of the 13 best.
Pros
Comes in multiple fits
Made with comfort-stretch fabric
Machine washable
Cons
Heavier than other options
Made by Bonobos—a brand that knows a thing or two about crafting elevated essentials—this style has the classic look of an oxford shirt but with extra stretch for comfort. Wear it to your nine-to-five, to after-work happy hour, or even on a first date with that person you met on Hinge (good luck); you’ll look chic and put-together wherever you go. If the light blue stripes aren’t your vibe, this shirt comes in 17 additional colorways.
One tester said: “This is a high-quality cotton shirt. It’s a little thicker than some, which gives it better structure and seems to help reduce wrinkling quite a bit. Due to the several fit options available, there’s something for everyone with this.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Tailored, Slim, Standard, Athletic |
Colors | 17 |
Pros
Fits true to size
Mother-of-pearl buttons
Cons
Pricier than other options
If there’s one name you should know in the oxford shirt game (and just in general, if we’re being honest), it’s Drake’s. Founded in 1977, the brand started out by selling men’s scarves, then quickly made its way to producing handmade ties and pocket squares. Now it creates some of the world’s finest shirts and accessories. This option has a regular silhouette, floating interlinings, single-needle construction, and—perhaps most importantly—an elegant rolling collar.
One tester said: “Not only does this option fit true to size, but it also has a slightly more contemporary fit when compared to the golden age of button-downs, which is a welcome change.”
Sizes | 14-18 |
---|---|
Fit | Regular |
Colors | 10 |
Pros
Modern slim fit
Embroidered gussets at the side seams
Locker loop on the back
Cons
Can sell out quickly
When Todd Snyder set out to create the perfect oxford shirt, it wanted a garment that felt broken in from the first wear. And after our testers tried this option, they could attest that the brand accomplished just that. They loved how this shirt can be worn straight off the rack and how it maintains its soft hand feel, wash after wash.
One buyer said: “Love the shirt. The fabric is comfortable and has a great feel to it; it is breathable and not too heavy.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Colors | 3 |
Pros
Button fastenings
Machine washable
Mother-of-pearl buttons
Cons
The most expensive option on this list
Few nail the classics quite like Brunello Cucinelli, and this lilac oxford shirt is certainly no exception. Made in Italy from crisp cotton that’s patterned with smart stripes, this option has a neat button-down collar, rounded hems, and a darted back to achieve the perfect slim fit. Pair it with chinos, a suit and tie, or even your favorite old-reliable jeans; whichever way you go, you’ll be the best-looking person in the room.
One tester said: “Although this option is pricier than the rest, it’s an investment you’ll be glad you made. The slim fit is flattering on almost any body type because it creates a more defined and proportionate appearance, and the midweight fabric allows you to wear this shirt from season to season.”
Sizes | S-3XL |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Colors | 2 |
Pros
Single-button cuffs
Preshrunk
Free garment repair in stores
Cons
Hang-dry only
We’d heard murmurs from the menswear rumor mill (because that’s definitely a thing) that Asket had an oxford shirt that couldn’t be beat. So naturally, we had to try it out for ourselves. When our reviewers first tested it, they noticed how the straight silhouette was extremely flattering and easy to wear. They also said the 100 percent organic cotton made it comfortable, durable, and softer than most other oxfords.
One buyer said: “I was looking for an everyday shirt that is comfortable, formal, and good for summer. This shirt checks all the boxes. I love it, and I plan on ordering more.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Straight |
Colors | 7 |
Pros
Crisp, structured finish
Lived-in feel
Comes in multiple colorways
Cons
Shipping can be slow
Buck Mason has perfected its oxford shirt down to the last detail. It features a slim-fitting silhouette with a shoulder-broadening back yoke and a tailored body. The brand’s custom-milled structured cotton breathes easily, and the shirt lays crisp and fits right—basically everything you could ever want in an oxford.
One buyer said: “I love this shirt. The material is great, and although it is a slim fit, I still felt like I had plenty of room for movement in the arms and shoulders.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Slim |
Colors | 5 |
Pros
Fits true to size
Comes in four colors
Available in regular or tall fit
Cons
Color is slightly lighter than in the photo
Back in 2021, Abercrombie & Fitch underwent the rebranding of a lifetime. The company not only removed its signature moose logo (yes, that one) but also started offering more diverse and inclusive sizes. This oxford shirt (one of the best things to come out of that rebrand) is made from a stretchy cotton-blend fabric and features a curved hem.
One buyer said: “I love this shirt. It’s made of really great, thick material that will last for years to come, and yet it maintains its classic style. It’s perfect for wearing with jeans for a night out or with chinos for a workday.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Colors | 4 |
Pros
Made with sustainable materials
Machine washable
Easy to style
Cons
Non-stretchy fabric
This oxford by Mr Porter is cut from organic cotton and patterned with slightly raised stripes for a hint of added texture. One of the best features of this shirt is that it comes with access to special digital content, including detailed care information, an origin story, and styling advice. When you receive your purchase, all you have to do is scan the QR code and you’re on your way.
One tester said: “I was tired of the same old white oxford shirts, and this light-green striped option provides just the right amount of flair. It’s well-constructed, dressy enough for an office setting, but can still work with casual slacks for a more laid-back vibe.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Classic |
Colors | 2 |
Pros
Not too slim and not too relaxed
Lightweight and breathable
Versatile styling
Cons
Can run large
Our testers knew this list needed an oxford that was roomier and more relaxed than the rest, and this option by Everlane is it. Crafted with 100 percent organic cotton fabric, it can be worn tucked or untucked, it’s crease resistant, and it will breathe well under a summer suit jacket for that upcoming wedding. (You should probably RSVP now, by the way.)
One buyer said: “This is a very flexible item. It looks great, both tucked in and untucked, and the sleeves roll up nicely. The material feels robust while not harsh on the skin. I’ve worn it for a few months now, and it still looks as good as the first day I got it.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Standard |
Colors | 7 |
Pros
Patch pockets
Machine washable
Throwback feel
Cons
The collar can feel too wide when buttoned
The oxford-cloth button-down is a quintessential wardrobe staple, and nobody does it quite like J.Crew. Its broken-in version is made from soft organic cotton that’s been washed to make the shirt feel like an old favorite right from the jump. It’s lightweight and comfortable, with a casual feel that nods to its Ivy League heritage. Our testers especially loved how the front pockets were deep enough to store things like cards, pens, a small notebook, and even a checkbook for those days when you want to go sans a commuter bag.
One buyer said: “I own a few different colors of this shirt, and it always works!”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Classic, Slim, Tall, Relaxed, Giant |
Colors | 8 |
Pros
Button-down point collar
Split-back yoke with box pleat
Cons
30 days to exchange it
Here’s a fun fact for you: Ralph Lauren’s cotton oxford shirt made its debut at the very start of the brand and since then has only solidified its status as a pillar of the Polo look. With its signature pony logo, a relaxed fit, and button barrel cuff sleeves, we guarantee it will become one of the most frequently worn items in your closet. Just ask some of the fashion experts here at Esquire who happen to be wearing this same style right now.
One buyer said: “Great fit, and I can style it in many different ways. Love the feeling of the shirt as well!”
Sizes | XS-3XL |
---|---|
Fit | Classic, Slim |
Colors | 9 |
Pros
American-made
Seamlessly transitions from sport to street
Barrel cuffs
Cons
Pricier than other options
Brooks Brothers, an American icon since 1818, is the oldest apparel brand in continuous operation in the United States. So yeah, these guys have had about a century to perfect the oxford shirt, and it’s safe to say they have. This option features 100 percent cotton oxford cloth, authentic mother-of-pearl buttons, signature six-pleat shirring, a chest pocket, a center back pleat, and single-needle tailored side seams. A timeless style worn by the likes of Fred Astaire, JFK, and the cast of Mad Men, it also happens to be one of our fashion director’s favorites.
One buyer said: “This shirt is great, from fabric to finish. Looks beautiful, well made, and should last through many wash cycles.”
Sizes | 14.5-18 |
---|---|
Fit | Slim, Regular, Traditional |
Colors | 3 |
Pros
Button-down collar
Chest pockets
Shirttail hem
Cons
Can sell out quickly
When it comes to creating timeless, easy-to-wear staples, Banana Republic does not fuck around. This shirt offers great bang for your buck (it’s also currently on sale), with sturdy, reliable buttons and a super-soft finish. But what really stood out for our testers was the shirt’s quality; they believe you’ll be getting a hell of a lot more than you pay for.
One buyer said: “I own too many of these oxford shirts, but luckily, they come in a lot of different colors. They’re lightweight, breathable, aren’t too stuffy, and go with just about anything you can imagine.”
Sizes | XS-2XL |
---|---|
Fit | Regular, Tall |
Colors | 8 |
What to Look For in an Oxford Shirt
![line break line break](https://cdn.statically.io/img/hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/line-break-1-1652475542.jpg?crop=1xw:1xh;center,top&resize=980:*)
Fit: For a perfect fit, an oxford should balance comfort and style, enhancing your appearance without compromising mobility. The shoulder seams should align with the tips of your shoulders, ensuring the shirt sits naturally. The chest should be snug but not tight, allowing enough room to move comfortably. The sleeves should reach the base of your thumb when your arms are straight down, with enough room to bend at the elbow without pulling. The shirt’s body should be slim enough to create a clean silhouette but not so tight that it clings to your midsection. The collar should fit snugly around your neck when buttoned, allowing for one or two fingers’ worth of space.
Fabric: Oxford shirts are traditionally made from oxford cloth, a type of woven fabric known for its durability and classic appearance. The fabric is usually made from cotton, but it can also include a blend of synthetic fibers for added wrinkle resistance and ease of care. However, if you want a more formal option, try finding a shirt made from royal oxford. This type of material is known for its soft hand and lustrous shiny finish, and it’s more lightweight and breathable than traditional cotton oxford.
Length: Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference, but consider how you intend to wear your oxford: tucked or untucked. For a more formal look, opt for a shirt that reaches the middle of your buttocks or slightly below. For a casual look, choose a shorter shirt—ideally, two and a half to five inches shorter than a typical tucked-in shirt. This shorter length allows you to leave it untucked while maintaining a polished appearance, avoiding sloppiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are oxford shirts casual or formal?
Oxford shirts can be either formal or casual. Their versatile design allows them to be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Pair an oxford with dress pants and a blazer for a formal look. For a more casual style, wear it untucked with jeans or chinos. This flexibility makes the oxford a staple in many wardrobes.
How do I style an oxford shirt?
As mentioned above, an oxford can be styled in various ways to suit different occasions. Pair it with chinos in neutral or pastel shades for a polished, preppy look. On cooler days, layer it under a jumper or lightweight knitwear for added warmth. For a relaxed, casual style, wear the oxford shirt open over a plain T-shirt and combine it with jeans or chinos. When aiming for a more contemporary outfit, an oxford can be elegantly paired with a casual-leaning suit or mixed with suit separates in wool, tweed, or cotton twill. We suggest trying them all—and oh, while you’re at it, grab some oxford shirts in a few different colors and prints. After that, you may never have to buy another shirt again.
How We Chose the Best Oxford Shirts
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In compiling this list of the best oxford shirts for men in 2024, our reviewers kept a few key things in mind: Every option on the list had to be made from high-quality fabric and it had to be versatile, with the ability to be dressed up or down.
After testing multiple options and comparing our results with the reviews on product sites, comments on Internet forums, and tips from our readers, we narrowed down the list to the 13 shirts from which to choose your new wardrobe staple.
Why You Can Trust Esquire
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We’re not going to say something is great unless it’s actually great. When it comes to the best oxford shirts for men, you can rest assured that we did our research. And what does that mean, you may ask? Well, we made sure to comb through tons of product reviews and Internet forums and test out different options ourselves to curate the best list possible.
In our reviewing process, we had to go through a lot of trial and error, but the result is that these oxford shirts are simply the best on the market.
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