These Editor-Tested Oxford Shirts Are the Building Blocks of Every Office Uniform

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THE OXFORD SHIRT is synonymous with preppy style, but you don’t have to be an Ivy League grad to rock one. That’s because nowadays, the best oxford shirts come in a variety of fabrics and fits that look great on just about anybody. They’re dressier than most button-down shirts, but still laid-back enough to go with smart casual fits.

To find the best ones to shop online, our fashion director Ted Stafford tried more than 20 oxford shirts. We tested the OG brands like Polo Ralph Lauren and Brooks Brothers, as well as modern shirts infused with performance features (think: tencel and elastane) that are breathable and moisture-wicking. They’re easier to maintain than stiff dress shirts, and can be styled in many ways. Whether you’re pairing them with shorts for a summer look or throwing them under a blazer for your office uniform, their level of versatility is quite impressive. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the coolest ones that run the gamut from casual to formal.

Best Oxford Shirts

What to Consider

Fabric

Oxford cloth is made with a basket weave that’s incredibly thick, and is much more resistant to wrinkling and rips than other dress shirt fabrics. This means you have to iron it less, and it lasts longer. 100% cotton is a classic choice, but cotton blends with materials like Tencel and elastane can make it stretchier and more comfortable, but they don’t hold up as long.

Fit

Stafford says the best oxford shirts should fit comfortably through the shoulders and chest without being too tight nor too loose. The sleeves should end at your wrist bone, and the hem should hit just below the best line for a neat appearance when worn untucked. Most garments come in slim or relaxed fits. A more relaxed fit looks great with casual looks, but if you want a more office-ready shirt, go for a slimmer cut.

Color

Oxford shirts come in a wide range of colors, each giving off different vibes. Classic and clean, a white option is versatile and timeless. It's perfect for formal occasions, office wear, and can also be dressed down for a crisp, casual look. Navy is sophisticated and slightly more formal, making it a solid choice for work and evening events. Pink adds a pop of color, which is perfect for spring and summer fits. Gray is neutral and understated, but works well in professional and casual settings. Meanwhile striped oxfords are sleek and give off a preppy aesthetic.

How We Selected

We’re dedicated to finding the best oxford styles, whether you like classic or slim, so you always look on point. Our style team, spearheaded by Fashion Director Ted Stafford, has tested more than 20 oxford shirts within the past year. We took them for a spin at the office, social events, and even casual hangouts. Stafford and his team evaluated each shirt's fabric quality, fit, and just how great it looked in a variety of ensembles. Keep reading to see our favorite ones.

Garment-Dyed Oxford Shirt

We gave more than 30 different oxford shirts a test run, but Ralph Lauren’s offering stole the top spot, thanks to its timeless style, ultra-soft feel and versatile wear. Since day one, the preppy American brand cemented its button-down as a signature piece of the Polo collection, and this still rings true today. With options in classic and slim fits, it caters to various body types and style preferences, ensuring you get a flattering look.

During our trial, we found tons of ways to wear it. For work, our fashion editors have paired it with chinos or dress pants and threw on a blazer. Going out to happy hour with friends? Leave it untucked over your favorite jeans or shorts and roll up the sleeves for an effortless vibe.

While the coloring may rub off onto fabrics and upholstery, this shirt is built to last. The garment-dyed process gives each shirt a unique, lived-in look with rich, vibrant colors that fade beautifully over time, adding charm and a vintage feel to your wardrobe.

Read More: Best Polo Shirts for Men

The Jack Everyday Slim Oxford Shirt

Unlike some fancy oxford shirts meant solely for buttoned-up events, Taylor Stitch’s version fairs better in casual settings. It has a relaxed fit, button-down collar, and even a handy patch pocket. Plus its vertical stripes makes you look taller, and gives a laid-back vibe that's spot on grabbing beers with pals or catching a live concert.

Compared to other shirts we’ve tested, this shirt has a substantial weight to it—like 6 oz of sturdy cotton fabric that holds up wash after wash. Since it’s quite hefty, it’s probably better suited for shoulder season than summer. The cut is slim-not-too tight, so you've got room to move without looking untidy.

Everyday Oxford Shirt

There’s nothing better than an oxford shirt that feels like butter. Enter Bonobos’ version, which feels dreamy on the skin. It’s made from cotton that's super soft and breathable, keeping you comfy all day. Unlike other oxford shirts in this list, this one is super flexible—thanks to the mechanical stretch blend. Our editors love this particular cut because you can reach, bend and move easily without sacrificing that classic fit. Speaking of which, you can choose between four different fits: slim, tailored, standard and athletic.

During our testing, we found it looks sharpest untucked with a pair of navy or beige trousers. Other nice details include the two buttons on the cuff that give you a customized fit around the wrist.

American-Made Oxford Cloth Button-Down Dress Shirt

Brooks Brothers, the OG oxford shirt maker, has rolled out many variations of its marquee top in the past century, but you can’t beat a classic. Take this pink number. It’s simple, has clean lines and versatile wear, making it suitable for both casual and formal settings. We found that rolling up sleeves can make it even more relaxed and suitable for a weekend brunch or art exhibit.

One of the best details is the stiff collar, which holds its shape and makes you look like you stepped out of a fashion magazine. Even though it’s on the dressier side, you can totally rock it with dark jeans and still look sharp. Plus, pink is for confident guys who aren't afraid to shake up the usual color palette.

The Classic Oxford Shirt

Need an oxford shirt that’s comfy through and through? Everlane’s standard fit version stands out as a solid contender. For starters, it’s made from organic cotton material, which is softer than regular cotton, thanks to the longer fibers. In terms of appearance, it strikes a perfect balance between rugged and refined, making it versatile for various occasions. Despite its elevated look, it maintains a lived-in feel that adds character to the piece. During our testing, we found the fit to be roomy in the body, but not too oversized to where its excess fabric makes the garment look ill-fitted or sloppy. Our editors have paired this option with their best chinos and casual shoes.

Slim Fit Favorite Oxford Shirt

If you prefer a slim fit oxford that looks super polished, check out Todd Snyder’s charcoal version. It’s ideal to wear to the office or dinner parties. The brand didn’t skimp on the details. The embroidered gussets offer added room for comfort, a collar back button ensures a neat appearance, a button-through chest pocket adds utility, and a loop on the back that provides convenience for hanging in the gym locker. We found that the fabric is not too stiff and gets better after being broken in a bit. The medium weight is just enough for it to be worn year round. In other words, it provides enough warmth for cooler days, while remaining breathable for warmer weather.

California Oxford One Pocket Shirt

Most oxford shirts we tested are too heavy to wear during the summer. That’s not the case with this Buck Mason option. At just 3 oz, it’s light enough to keep you from sweating bullets, making it more airy than the Taylor Stitch one. The magic is in the fabric—a blend of cotton and Tencel. Cotton keeps it breathable, while Tencel wicks away moisture, so you stay cool and dry even on the hottest days of the season.

Our style editors are big fans. They found it looks clean untucked with chinos or shorts, meaning it's versatile enough for a dinner date or park picnic. The mother of pearl buttons add a touch of class, and there’s a convenient pocket for your sunglasses, which is perfect for those sunny days out. Plus, the box pleat in the back isn’t just for show—it gives you extra room to move, so you’re not feeling restricted.

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