Popularised in the United States during the 1960s, the shirt behind the enigmatic moniker “OCBD” wasted no time in conquering the Old Continent. “OC” stands for Oxford Cloth, giving away the construction of this menswear icon; “BD” for button-down, referring to the signature collar that defines the piece. Ultimately, the acronym says it all about this sartorial staple, which brings together an essential fabric—Oxford—and a superb collar to create an emblem of elegance and versatility.
Across the Atlantic, several iconic labels claim credit for creating the original OCBD (Mercer & Sons, Brooks Brothers, or J. Press), but all agree that its soul lies in this two-ply warp and weft cotton cloth, as well as in that button-down collar, as soft as it is generous: the “soft roll collar”.
Having earned its iconic status on the shoulders of American Ivy League students, the Oxford shirt became a cornerstone of preppy style and, more broadly, a timeless staple of classic menswear.
Everything you need to know about its construction?
As you can tell, leaving the OCBD out of our capsule collection was simply out of the question. After ten years dedicated (almost) entirely to shirtmaking, it was essential for us to offer one.
For the occasion, we set the bar remarkably high and went in search of a fabric truly worthy of the project. Though long and meticulous, our quest succeeded in reviving an original cloth. Quite simply, the cotton Oxford we sourced from Albini can be considered the finest on the market. Modernised from an archival white and sky blue stripe weave (known as “university stripes”), it is by far the most refined fabric we have handled. Resonating with the spirit of the 1960s and the golden age of tailoring, it embodies an effortless style once championed by the likes of JFK, Gianni Agnelli, and Miles Davis.
To do justice to such a fabric, the cut of our 1960 Oxford shirt had to match. It delivers just that with a classic fit of effortless elegance, striking the right balance between tradition and modern style. Subtly tailored through the body, it flatters every silhouette, adapting cleanly and comfortably to all body shapes.
With the collar, we arrive at the heart of this piece, and it carries that role with total poise. The spread is confident, the points generous and sharp. The result boasts a rare balance, conveying both harmony and self-assurance. Distinctive without being overpowering, refined yet understated, we crafted a true “soft roll collar” in keeping with tradition. Buttoned or unbuttoned, it is a pleasure to look at, exceptional to the touch, and impeccable to wear.
At our level of exacting standards, details are never an afterthought. Guided by the same precision behind our fabric sourcing and garment design, we ensured that every detail and finish is truly exceptional. True to traditional craftsmanship, you will find a left chest pocket, subtly rounded cuffs, and a neat pleat at the sleeve base. As the finishing touch, all buttons are genuine mother-of-pearl. “There all is order and beauty, luxury, peace, and pleasure.”
Casual by nature, sophisticated by design
For more than half a century, the OCBD has stood at the forefront of the smart-casual wardrobe. Casual by nature and sophisticated by design, it blends elegance with effortless character like no other piece of menswear. Naturally, our 1960 Oxford shirt embraces this duality, taking it to its highest expression.
Timeless and versatile, the iconic Ivy shirt looks just as sharp with a suit as it does in a more relaxed outfit. Paired with a suit, chinos, or classic blue jeans, you can rely on it to set the tone—elevating your look with refined style or lending it a welcome touch of casual ease.
With or without a jacket, with or without a tie, effortlessly and unapologetically, simply put it on and let it do the rest.
How to care for an Oxford shirt?
In addition to being easy to wear, the 1960 Oxford shirt—available in a limited run of 100 pieces—is remarkably easy to care for. Simply machine wash it inside out (ideally in a laundry net) on a 30°C “Cotton” programme, keeping the spin speed under 800 rpm. Once washed, simply hang it on a wooden hanger to dry, then iron on a medium heat.
