Written by The Strategy

In spite of the most mediocre reputation, oxford shirts aren’t making a style come back, they’ve already made it. The case of the oxford button down is not unlike that of the infamous Birkenstock sandal. Does anyone really love Birkenstocks? Maybe. But, regardless of personal opinion, look at how far they’ve come thanks to the influence of fashion.

Separate from visions of business men, an oxford style blouse is no longer restricted to the likes of office professionals. Whether it’s through the ever present androgynous tone, or the plain over sexualization of a woman in men’s clothing, complete with boxer short-shorts, oxford shirts have stepped up their game. With designers of the Alexander Wang sort adopting the classic shirt into their collections, the sometimes boring oxford has finally been getting the TLC it so desperately needed.

The key is versatility. Whether scandalously revealing, à la Mr. Wang, or used as a layering piece as seen via Céline, the oxford shirt has blossoming into an item that can be worn regardless of personal style or age. With everyone grasping at the chance to put their own spin on a timeless classic, there are oodles of options for whatever your heart desires.

The oxford has gone from a workplace essential to a wardrobe essential as fundamentally ubiquitous as a plain white t-shirt. It’s a foolproof addition that can be combined with practically any style.

Buckle up, kids, because the oxford has been revamped and is better than ever.

Written by Katrina Garofalo