The Oxford Remix

Downplaying an Oxford

Last weekend’s cooler weather allowed for layers and for me to fully style the oxford as I intended as part of the Brooks Brothers own your oxford style challenge. My friend is the director of social media for the brand which means I get to see her wear new, cool pieces on Instagram and be invited to participate in cool campaigns like this one! Moments like this I feel hip and connected–most of the time I’m just living the midwest dream talking to my dogs and eating grilled cheeses. When Monica asked about this campaign, I was initially hesitant since oxfords aren’t typically a component of style wardrobe, but she reminded me it is about making it your own–and showcasing your personal style.

I typically associate crisp, button downs with everything that doesn’t describe my personal style or lifestyle: preppy, traditional and perhaps a little too conventional. But what I love about the oxford is it’s timelessness and class.

To make it my own, I added vintage style Levi’s, silk scarf and a leather jacket and it morphed from plain oxford to something totally my style. And I guess that’s what’s great about such a high quality, timeless shirt: you can style it in numerous ways and make it work for countless occasions. I don’t think I’ve worn an oxford since my FFA days when it required official dress (plus black slacks or skirt and the celebrated blue corduroy jacket.)

To make it more summer appropriate, I mixed in summer-ready details of woven straw and these mules I’ve lived in last summer and again this season.

Oxford top and silk scarf c/o Brooks Brothers | jeans by Levi’s | mules by Dolce Vita | leather jacket from Topshop | Lack of Color hat from Retail Therapy

Photography by Susan Hamilton