Shirts, trousers and basics
Oxford shirts: the shirt that goes with everything
By sneakersInn team · Updated
An oxford shirt is a shirt made from oxford cloth, a soft, textured cotton weave, usually with a button-down collar. It goes with almost everything because it sits between smart and casual: tucked into chinos with a navy suit jacket, untucked over jeans, or rolled up with chino shorts.
| Wear it with | For |
|---|---|
| Navy suit, no tie | Weddings, church, the office |
| Navy chinos, loafers | Smart casual, dinners |
| Dark jeans, white sneakers | Weekends |
| Chino shorts, sleeves rolled | Hot weekends |
| Under a crewneck knit | Air-conditioned offices |
What is oxford cloth?
A basket weave in which two or more threads cross over each other, giving a slightly textured, durable fabric. It's thicker than poplin and softens with every wash. Finer versions, called pinpoint oxford, look smarter.
Why the button-down collar?
The small buttons hold the collar points in place, so the collar looks neat without a tie and under a knit. That's what makes the oxford shirt so easy to wear casually.
Which colours should I buy?
- Light blue: the most versatile; flatters dark skin and hides wear.
- White: crisp and clean.
- Pink: surprisingly versatile with navy and grey.
- Blue and white stripe: a classic pattern.
Can I wear an oxford shirt with a tie?
Yes, a knitted or textured tie with a casual suit or blazer. For formal events, choose a poplin or twill shirt with a spread collar. See the perfect white shirt.
Tucked or untucked?
Tuck it with chinos and suits; untuck it with jeans and shorts if the hem is not too long. See tucked or untucked.
How should it fit?
Close but comfortable, with room to move. Oxford cloth is thicker, so a slim fit can feel warm in Accra; choose a regular or tailored fit with breathing room.
How do I care for it?
Wash at 30 to 40°C, hang to dry and iron while slightly damp. Oxford cloth wrinkles less than poplin and looks fine slightly rumpled.
Questions
Is an oxford shirt formal enough for an interview?
For business casual roles, yes, with a blazer. For formal interviews, a poplin dress shirt with a tie. See what to wear to a job interview in Accra.
Is oxford cloth too warm for Accra?
It's warmer than poplin or linen. For the hottest days, choose a linen shirt.