Classically, an oxford shirt is made of oxford cloth, typically a basket weave pattern that is softer, comfortable, of greater durability, generally wrinkling less than the typical dress shirt. Also characteristic is a button-down collar. The oxford straddles informal dressing and formal occasions. Team it up with anything from a sweatshirt to a sport coat.
Wearing a tie with one is not frowned upon, but seldom done. One may wear an oxford shirt, open at the neck, with a single-breasted suit. It is a canny piece of clothing that somehow stiffens up any super-casual ensemble.
The oxford has become a smart-casual staple of men’s wardrobes, lending its polish to every level of “dressing up” and dressing down. That means it is seen at brunches and gala evenings and at home, even with flip-flops on and friends dropping in for a beer.
This style of shirting seems to underpin the modern guy’s shirt game.