Oxford Fabric: History, Application, and Characteristics

Oxford fabric, being one of the versatile types of woven fabric, has a variety of applications. Oxford plays an essential role from clothing to accessories. In the textile industry, Oxford fabric has durability and ease of maintenance. It has an aesthetic appeal that makes it a staple fabric among all. This article explores the rich history of Oxford with its applications across different sectors.

What is Oxford Fabric?

Oxford fabric refers to the fabric type with a weave structure similar to a plain weave. It is lightweight. Hence, the most uses of Oxford is in making shirting fabrics.

Although it is named after Oxford University, oxford fabric is a cotton-made fabric. The fabric is easy to maintain. It is also available to use in skirts, sportswear, and pajamas. 

Oxford Fabric: History

Oxford fabric has its origin in Scotland back in the early 19th century. Weaving mills first created it. The fabric is named after Oxford University in England. Hence, it has come to the limelight for being an exclusive line for high-end materials. It stands out as the best because of its unique texture and versatility. 

Oxford fabric was initially popular among academicians and athletes. Soon, it gained a polished look. In the sports field, polo players first wore Oxford fabric-made garments due to their breathable nature. Besides, the fabric can withstand the movement without getting wrinkles and tearing. 

What is Oxford Fabric made of?

Oxford fabric is a remarkable texture for having a glossy finish, and softness. The fabric is durable as it is made of 100% cotton, polyester, and a blend of cotton and polyester. The applications of the fabric soon expanded due to its popularity in the sportswear industry.

Manufacturing Process

Oxford fabric follows several steps in the manufacturing process. They are:

• First Step: Preparation of the raw materials: Cotton, polyester, and blend fibers are spun into yarns. Thicker yarns are primarily used.
• Second Step: The Dyeing Process: Oxford fabrics are dyed in two yarn colors. 
• Third Step: Weaving: The yarns are interwoven in the weaving patterns. Weaving patterns are created using industrial looms. The structure of the weave is thick and slightly heavy. 
• Fourth Step: Finishing: After the weaving process, the Oxford fabric undergoes the finishing process. The processes include washing and softening. 

Types of Oxford Fabric

Oxford fabric comes in different types. No matter which type it is, the fabric is well-known for its use in making shirts.

Some of the popular types of Oxford Fabric are:

1. Plain Oxford: This Oxford fabric type has softness. It has resistance to wrinkle. The fabric is achieved by combining two lengthwise yarns with crosswise yarns. This is achieved during the weaving process. 
2. Pinpoint Oxford: Pinpoint Oxford blends durability with lightweight materials. Pinpoint goes through a specific treatment to lend a more formal appearance.
3. Royal Oxford: Oxford fabric has an exquisite beauty. It has a lustrous finish that makes it suitable for elegant garments. 
4. Polyester Oxford: Polyester, being a synthetic fiber, has the most common uses in outdoor gear and other accessories. The fabric, polyester oxford, has water resistance ability, durable strength, and easy-to-take care features.
5. Blended Oxford: Blended Oxford is the combination of natural and synthetic fibers. Here, cotton and polyester are mainly used as blended fiber to make blended Oxford fabric. This blended version offers the softness of cotton. It also adds durability and water resistance ability to synthetic materials.

Properties of Oxford Fabric

Oxford fabric has critical properties. These properties contribute to the versatility of the fabric:

Fabric Name	Oxford Fabric
Manufacturing Materials	Cotton, and Polyester; Blend of Cotton and Polyester
Fabric Durability	High
Fabric Breathability	Moderate to High
Stretchability	Stretchability
Fabric Shine	Mild to Moderate
Fabric Drape Ability	Moderate
Fabric GSM	120-150 GSM
Prone to Pilling	Low
Wrinkle Resistance Ability	Moderate
Applicable for	Apparel, Upholstery, and Sportswear Industry

Characteristics of Oxford Fabric

Oxford fabric has the following features.

For instance:

1. Unique weave structure: The most essential feature is its basket weave. The weaving process involves the interweaving of multiple yarns over. Here, two thinner yarns are interlaced with a thick yarn. The weave structure adds durability and visual appeal to the subtly textured surface. 
2. Durability: Oxford fabric has excellent durability. The thicker yarns used in the weaving process make the fabric strong. It is resistant to wear and tear and abrasion. The synthetic fiber made by Oxford has enhanced wrinkle resistance.
3. Softness: Oxford fabric has textures available in pure cotton and blended versions. This feature provides a soft feel on the skin. The softness also makes the fabric comfortable to wear for longer hours.
4. Water Resistance Ability: Oxford fabric is combined with synthetic fibers. Here, synthetic fibers, for instance, polyester. It is coated with unique treatments. As a fabric, Oxford is highly water-resistant. The fabric is ideal for outdoor applications with protective coverings.
5. Wrinkle Resistance: Oxford fabric has wrinkle resistance. It is available in synthetic and blended versions. The fabric makes an excellent choice that maintains its appearance over time.
6. Ease of Maintenance: Oxford fabric is easy to take care of. The fabric is machine washable. It is quick to dry. To resist stains, the fabric gets well-treated. The fabric undoubtedly makes a practical choice for everyday wear.
7. Affordability: Oxford fabric is affordable. It is synthetic. The fabric is available in blended versions. This affordability is coupled with the durability of the fabric. The cost-effective feature makes the fabric a popular choice across several industries. 

Oxford Fabric and Its Application

The versatility of Oxford fabric makes it suitable for several applications. For instance:

• Apparel: Oxford Shirts, casual wear, work uniforms. 
• Home Decor: Upholstery, cushions, curtains, and table linens. 
• Accessories: Bags, Backpacks, and Outdoor gears. 

How to Care for Oxford Fabric

Oxford fabric has several advantages. For instance, ease of maintenance. There are some specific instructions. For instance:

• Machine Washing: Oxford fabric is machine washable. It has blended and synthetic versions. Machine washing requires following a few specific wash settings.
• Drying: Drying is related to the temperature setting. Oxford fabric, which is cotton-made, can shrink due to high temperatures. Air drying is recommended for synthetic fibers. Synthetic fibers made fabrics should be kept on a low heat setting.

• Ironing: Oxford fabric is comparatively wrinkle-resistant. Ironing is necessary. It is best to keep the temperature setting in moderate mode. Besides, using steam can help minimize any wrinkles issue.
• Stain Removing: Oxford fabric has a stain removal procedure to follow. Gentle stain remover has to be effective due to tough stains.

Conclusion

Oxford fabric has a unique, rich history with enduring features. The diverse applications of apparel, accessories, and home decor areas make the fabric a helpful material. The timeless style has also contributed to the fabric being a staple in the fashion industry. It will continue to be a go-to material for all, with proper care and functional activities.