Upton Plain Toe Oxford Black

The plain toe oxford is the most formal dress shoe a man can own. No broguing, no decorative stitching, no details to distract from the silhouette. That simplicity is what puts it at the top of the dress code for black tie events, formal weddings, and any occasion where the standard is set high.

The Johnston & Murphy Upton delivers that clean look without sacrificing comfort. It is built to carry you through a full event, not just the first hour of it.

Details

• Full-grain leather upper

• Removable memory foam footbed

• TRUEFOAM outsole for lightweight cushioned comfort

• Double-stitched leather welt

• Antimicrobial polymesh lining, 50% recycled

• Plain toe, closed lacing oxford construction

• Imported

• Available in sizes 9.5D through 13D

When to Wear the Upton Plain Toe Oxford

Black Tie and White Tie Events

The plain toe oxford is the correct shoe for black tie and white tie dress codes. No other shoe style meets the standard the way this one does. If you are wearing a tuxedo, this is the shoe.

Formal Weddings

For a wedding where the dress code is formal or black tie optional, the Upton works perfectly. It pairs with a tuxedo, a dark suit, or a formal suit without any conflict.

Business Formal

In a professional setting where the dress standard is high, a black plain toe oxford signals that you understand the room. It pairs with charcoal, navy, and black suits equally well.

What It Does Not Work For

Plain toe oxfords sit at the formal end of the spectrum. They are not the right choice for business casual, smart casual, or events where the dress code is relaxed.

Sizing

The Upton runs true to size. Available in sizes 9.5D through 13D. If you are between sizes or unsure about width, visit one of our five Dallas-Fort Worth locations and we will measure you properly before you buy.

Complete your formal look with our tuxedo dress shirts and tuxedo studs and cufflinks.

Care Instructions

Daily Care

Wipe the shoe down with a dry or slightly damp cloth after each wear to remove dust and surface dirt. Do not let moisture sit on the leather.

Polishing

Polish the shoe every few weeks using a cream or wax polish in black. Work it in with a brush, let it dry, then buff to a shine. Regular polishing protects the leather and keeps the shoe looking sharp.

Storage

Use cedar shoe trees between wears. They hold the shape of the shoe and absorb moisture from the inside, which extends the life of the leather significantly.

Don't forget to pair with our dress socks for a complete polished look. 

Try Them On in Dallas-Fort Worth

Available for pickup at our Richardson location, usually ready within 24 hours. We also stock dress shoes across our Dallas, Frisco, Arlington, and Mesquite stores. Sizing is the one part of buying shoes that is hard to get right online. If you have any doubt about your size, the trip in is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a plain toe oxford?

A plain toe oxford is a lace-up dress shoe with a smooth, undecorated toe cap and closed lacing. The closed lacing, where the lace eyelets are stitched under the vamp, is what makes it an oxford rather than a derby.

Is a plain toe oxford appropriate for black tie?

Yes. The plain toe oxford is the most appropriate dress shoe for black tie and white tie events. It is cleaner and more formal than a wingtip or monk strap, which makes it the right choice when the dress code is at its most demanding.

Can I wear this shoe with a suit?

Yes. Black plain toe oxfords work with charcoal, navy, and black suits for business formal and formal social occasions. They are the most versatile formal shoe in that color.

What is TRUEFOAM?

TRUEFOAM is Johnston & Murphy's proprietary outsole technology. It is designed to be lightweight and cushioned, so the shoe feels less like a formal shoe and more like something you could actually wear all day without your feet paying for it later.

How do I care for full-grain leather shoes?

Wipe them down after each wear, polish every few weeks with a matching cream or wax polish, and store them with cedar shoe trees. Full-grain leather improves with care over time and can last for years if maintained properly.

Does the footbed come out?

Yes. The memory foam footbed is removable, which means you can replace it if it compresses over time or swap in an orthotic if you use one.