If you’re anything like me, you may have had an emo phase in middle or high school (or are still lowkey in it). Your 14- or 15-year-old self waltzed into Tilly’s, with your mom (and her wallet) in tow, and purchased your first pair of Dr. Martens mid-calf boots, followed by a trip to Hot Topic to grab the newest My Chemical Romance T-shirt. And while you may have grown out of your emo phase, Dr. Martens have not left the fashion scene.
Dr. Martens shoes have been a staple in the alternative fashion space for decades now, but one style in particular has entered mainstream fashion on TikTok and Instagram this past year: Dr. Martens oxfords. “Styling Dr. Martens Oxfords” has gained hundreds of thousands of views on TikTok the past few months, and as winter approaches, continue to appear on style influencers and celebs (such as Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner, who has been spotted wearing them at least since 2019).
There are several Dr. Martens Oxfords that fit a variety of different aesthetics, from the classic 1461 Smooth Leather Oxford Shoes ($130) to the increasingly popular 8053 Leather Platform Casual Shoes ($170). Here are six cute ways to style your Dr. Martens Oxfords.
- Professional Wear
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Historically, oxfords have been worn in professional attire. Lean into this history by styling your oxfords with trousers or an oversized blazer. Trousers and professional wear can be found at your local thrift store, or purchased from a variety of retailers online, like Aritzia and Abercrombie & Fitch. TikTok creator Metéa Rose styles her professional wear in separate outfits in this adorable TikTok.
- Jumpsuit
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Canvas jumpsuits are a workwear staple — they’re durable, stylish, and an excellent compliment to Dr. Martens Oxfords. Styling your oxfords with a solid-colored jumpsuit, like this short sleeve jumpsuit from Big Bud Press ($190), and colorful socks is a fun way to jump on the trend. On a budget? Less expensive canvas jumpsuits can also be purchased from Dickies, who have been creating durable workwear since 1922.
- Midi (Or Maxi) Dress
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Dr. Martens Oxfords can be styled virtually any way, but can be elevated in a feminine way with a midi or maxi dress. Slip dresses, like this midi dress from Oak and Fort ($42), generally come in a variety of lengths that are suitable for any height.
- Mini Skirt
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Add a feminine touch to this style by wearing a mini skirt or skort rather than a heavy trouser! A mini skirt can be styled with tights and socks for colder weather, or without for warmer weather. This mini skort from UNIF ($78) is the perfect non-seasonal closet staple to add feminine flare to the heavier Dr. Martens Oxford shoe.
- Denim Jeans
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Oversized, 90s-style denim compliments Dr. Martens oxfords flawlessly . Vintage denim is generally amazing (I can’t get enough) due to its shape and durability, but can be a bit hard to find at a good price on Depop or other resale apps.Levi’s recently released a new style of their classic 501’s called the ‘90s Original that features the perfect vintage denim silhouette, and at a better price point than most vintage denim. Kaia Gerber’s collection for Zara also includes a pair of straight-leg jeans, if Levi’s isn’t your speed. Pair your perfect pair of jeans with socks, oxfords, and a cozy sweater for a comfortable (yet chic) look.
- Shorts
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Your first thought on a chilly autumn morning might not be to grab a pair of denim shorts, but with the addition of tights, this summer staple can become cold-weather friendly. After all, Indie Sleaze is back, and with the Tumblr-born aesthetic comes the return of tights under shorts, especially denim. Levi’s also has several options for denim shorts, like these high-rise ribcage shorts ($70), but denim shorts can be found virtually anywhere, even secondhand. Pair your oxford’s with denim shorts, tights, and a matching denim jacket or black blazer to live your best Indie Sleaze life this fall.