In the 21st century, Western fashion culture has taken a gender-neutral turn. Whether it be Harry Styles in a dress on the cover of Vogue or Zendaya sporting a full suit on the red carpet, the message is clear: We’re in an era where androgynous dressing is mainstream, and you should take advantage of that by stepping out in whatever styles you’re feeling without fear.
With that in mind, let’s talk about Oxford shoes. Oxfords—which have historically been categorized as a men’s style of shoe—are now frequently worn by women. And if you’re looking for a semi-formal shoe that can stand in for a pair of heels, Oxfords are one of the best options we can think of. They’re comfortable, close-toed, and pair with slacks and jeans just as well as they do with a dress or jumpsuit.
Oxfords are typically made from high-quality leather or suede and feature a laced upper. However, thanks to the innovative spirit of today’s shoemakers, you can find Oxfords in all kinds of colors and shapes on the internet. Even still, knowing whether the pair you have your eye on is going to give you a blister or not can be a challenge, which is why we’ve done our research and rounded up a list of the 10 best pairs of women’s Oxford shoes we could find.
How We Found The Best Oxford Shoes
Here’s how our Top 10 lists work: We use our data-powered ranking algorithm to find and score products in a given category. Factoring in details from reviews, best-seller lists, social media buzz, and more sources, this tool creates an unbiased ranking of the 10 best products available. Today, we’re talking Oxford shoes, and with options from brands like Cole Haan, J.Crew, and Naturalizer, we have a good feeling there’s a pair in the lineup below that will turn your fall ‘fits up a notch.
November 10, 2023
Written By:Sierra Rogers
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Franco Sarto Charles Oxford
Overall Score
4.05
10
Franco Sarto Charles Oxford
4.5
63 User Reviews
2.5
Best Seller
1
Industry Recognition
1
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Pointed Toe Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Inspired by classic men's Oxfords, Franco Sarto’s have a simple, chic design. They have a flattering almond-toe silhouette and a short (1.5") block heel, making them just as walkable as they are versatile.
MORE TO KNOW
“The Charles Oxford is terrific! It's stylish and very comfortable. The fit is just right for me; it is a bit snug but not tight. The heel doesn't slip. The lug soles are light and very cushiony, making them great for walking and standing for long periods.”
More Colors
Clarks Orianna Lug Sole Derby
Overall Score
4.15
09
Clarks Orianna Lug Sole Derby
4.4
2 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lug Sole Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Everyone needs a pair of Clarks in their closet. A shoemaker with almost 200 years of experience, Clarks makes iconic, long-lasting footwear. Just look at the Orianna Derby Shoe for all the evidence you need; with its lugged block heel and timeless look, you'll be able to pair this shoe with a wide range of outfits for years to come.
MORE TO KNOW
According to reviewers, these shoes need a breaking-in period. Make sure you wear thick socks the first few times you take them for a spin to protect yourself from blisters.
Cole Haan Camea Oxford
Overall Score
4.2
08
Cole Haan Camea Oxford
4.4
32 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Heeled Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Thanks to their rubber lug sole, Cole Haan's Camea Oxfords can handle a cold, rainy day. Perfect for traveling and long work weeks, these classic leather Oxfords are built with comfort in mind. They are lightweight and have a plush footbed, as well as a heel tab that makes them easy to pull on and off.
PROMISING REVIEW
"These shoes are really well-made and timeless in their design. I love oxfords and I think these are maybe the best pair I have purchased in years. The leather is supple and comfortable. The toe box has enough room and they are true to size. They have a great style and look good with everything."
More Colors
Naturalizer Darry Lace Oxford
Overall Score
4.25
07
Naturalizer Darry Lace Oxford
4.8
5 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Platform Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Naturalizer—a brand known for its high-quality leather—has added a trendy feel to the traditional style of the Darry Lace Oxfords through a round-toe box and a platform lug sole. And like the last pair, these loafers are also designed to be flexible and lightweight.
MORE TO KNOW
Pick this pair up in Black or Toffee Leather. Either way, you'll look classically cool.
More Colors
The Office of Angela Scott Mr. Evans Oxford
Overall Score
4.3
06
The Office of Angela Scott Mr. Evans Oxford
4.78
306 User Reviews
2.8
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
0
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Wingtop Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Wingtop Oxfords at their finest—that's what you get with the Mr. Evans Oxfords from The Office of Angela Scott. Handmade in Portugal, these shoes have a cork midsole that shapes to your foot over time. But heads-up: Nordstrom says these run a half-size small.
PROMISING REVIEW
"Amazing! The craftsmanship is stunning, and the attention to detail is apparent. They were comfortable right out of the box. With each wear, they break in a bit more and mold to the foot. They may seem a bit pricey, but these are definitely an investment in shoes you'll have for years."
J.Crew Winona Oxford Loafers
Overall Score
4.3
05
J.Crew Winona Oxford Loafers
5
2 User Reviews
2.1
Best Seller
0
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Leather Oxfords
THE DETAILS
If you're easily drawn in by a shiny pair of shoes, you need to lay your eyes on J.Crew's Winona Oxford Loafers in spazzolato leather. This unique form of polished leather is made in Morocco and has a glossy finish that gives these loafers a fancy feel.
MORE TO KNOW
These shoes are resistant to scuffs, as spazzolato leather is considered a hard-wearing, scratch- and stain-proof material.
Dr. Martens 1461 Classic Oxford
Overall Score
4.35
04
Dr. Martens 1461 Classic Oxford
4.3
143 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Cushioned Oxfords
THE DETAILS
Everyone knows Dr. Martens, but did you know that the 1461 Classic Oxfords were the second shoe ever produced by the brand? A classic through and through, these loafers feature the iconic air-cushioned comfort soles the brand is known for with a lace-up leather upper and a round toe box.
MORE TO KNOW
If you visit Dr. Martens' website, you can find the 1461 Classic Oxfords in a range of leather options (including a vegan version).
More Colors
Cole Haan ZERØGRAND Wingtip Oxford
Overall Score
4.4
03
Cole Haan ZERØGRAND Wingtip Oxford
4.32
793 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Sporty Oxfords
THE DETAILS
On the sportier side of the Oxford look, you've got Cole Haan's ZERØGRAND Wingtip Oxfords. The rubber soles on these shoes are flexible and lightweight, but that doesn't take away from the impact of the intricate, laser-cut details on their leather upper.
MORE TO KNOW
This style runs small, so Cole Haan suggests ordering a half size up from your usual.
More Colors
Nisolo Emma d'Orsay Oxford
Overall Score
4.6
02
Nisolo Emma d'Orsay Oxford
4.42
1627 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best d'Orsay Oxfords
THE DETAILS
The Emma d'Orsay Oxfords deviate from the classic silhouette with deep side cutouts and a lace-free upper. Despite their modern feel, the d'Orsay design dates back to the 19th century, so there's a good chance they'll stay in style for years to come.
PROMISING REVIEW
"I was looking for an Oxford style shoe for work (business/business casual) and nothing quite fit what I was wanting until I found the Emma d'Orsay Oxford. Once the shoes arrived I really fell in love—the leather was very high quality and they fit perfectly. They look great with both dress pants and jeans. Definitely follow the recommendation to go up a half size, I'm typically an 8.5 and got a 9."
More Colors
Cole Haan ØriginalGrand Wingtip Oxford
Overall Score
4.6
01
Cole Haan ØriginalGrand Wingtip Oxford
4.47
595 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Oxfords Overall
THE DETAILS
If there's one thing to glean from our algorithm's pick for the best Oxford shoes, it's that Cole Haan is crushing it in this category. The brand's third style to make the cut, the ØriginalGrand Wingtip Oxford, combines traditional brogue detailing with a contemporary EVA midsole to create a stylish shoe that can go for miles.
MORE TO KNOW
Reviewers mention that this style runs large. Consider ordering a half size down from your usual to get the most comfortable fit possible.
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