In 17th century, for the first time men wore laced shoes,while  attending a university. These were cut smaller than the foot giving the men a mincing step, and were associated with foppery, fine dressing and a particular social class. These are known as Oxford  shoes, or Balmorals.

The Oxford shoes are made of leather or suede, but some less expensive or vegan varieties featuring non-animal hide. These were worn more by college graduates and less by the college set, where they would be considered overdressing. They also fit better than did the early varieties. Soles can differ. The more expensive shoes feature a leather sole, but most of the Oxford shoes of mid-price have a rubber or plastic sole with about a quarter to a half-inch heel (.64-1.27 cm). A few have a slightly higher heel, which can make one appear a little taller. Common colors include black, dark brown and burgundy.

Some variations of Oxford shoes have been seen over the years. The saddle shoe is essentially an Oxford shoe. The Oxford shoes,  have a strip of leather across the tops of the shoes, in either brown or black. These were greatly popular in the 1950s for women and children, and they remain a popular shoe for children today.

Usually, the saddle shoe is white with a black strip, one can find tan with dark brown “saddles," light blue with dark blue saddles or a variety of other color combinations.