The term 'Oxford' refers to any style of footwear with a 'closed' lacing system, where the facings are stitched flush with the rest of the shoe.
The word 'brogue' refers to the punched detailing, which at one point was used to let water out of country shoes; these days, they are purely decorative and add a more casual edge. A pair of oxford brogues can be dressed up or down and should be a staple style in anyone's wardrobe.
