Oxford shirts are traditionally considered more casual due to the texture of the fabric, but still work for the office.

February 5, 2025

Can You Wear a Tie with an Oxford Shirt?

An Oxford shirt and tie can be a stylish combo, but fabric choice and knot size matter. Find out how to balance casual and refined for the perfect look.

Yes, pairing a tie with an Oxford shirt looks great, especially for semi-formal and business casual occasions. Oxford shirts are traditionally considered more casual due to the texture of the fabric, but this doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't wear a tie with an Oxford shirt. A textured tie, whether knitted or silk, will be your best option for this type of shirt. 

Any tie can be paired with an oxford shirt, creating a smart casual look.

The casual ties that look best with oxford shirts are usually made of cotton, linen, or wool knit. Since Oxford shirts typically have smaller collars, some natural tie fabrics can cause a tie knot to be too big and bulky. Avoid the problem of oversized knots when wearing an Oxford shirt and use a simple four-in-hand knot

In addition to selecting ties in casual fabrics, coordinate the patterns and colors of your tie and Oxford shirt. In order to achieve a balanced appearance, go with a solid tie for a patterned shirt and vice versa. 

If you want to elevate your look for social or professional events, simply add a blazer or a sports coat. With a jacket, you'll achieve an ideal pairing for networking events, casual business meetings, and even relaxed evening gatherings. However, if you're aiming for a polished casual look, an Oxford shirt looks smart with a loosened tie and rolled-up sleeves.

Investigate The Tie Bar's selection of ties that pair effortlessly with classic Oxford shirts for both casual and semi-formal occasions.

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