If you were asked to name Scotland’s greatest contribution to menswear, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? Jumpers? Brogues? Kilts…?

Whatever it is, it’s probably not Oxford shirts. Despite its name, the Oxford shirt’s origins can be traced back to 19th century Scotland, where factories experimented with weaves to create four new styles, each named after one of the four best-known universities at the time: Yale, Cambridge, Harvard and Oxford.

If you don’t recognise the others as shirts, you’re not alone – only the Oxford has proved popular enough to not be cut from production. Known for its basket-weave pattern, the Oxford is woven from two different strands of yarn (which gives it that distinctive marled appearance) and often, but not always, features a button-down collar.

It’s changed a little since it was first introduced – your average Oxford no longer comes with a detachable collar and cuffs – but not that much considering we’ve been wearing them for well over a hundred years.

The secret to the Oxford’s longevity is its versatility. Here are the best ways to wear one: some obvious; some unexpected.

With Chinos

There’s an inherent preppiness to the Oxford shirt – thanks in part to its history as an integral piece of polo uniform, but mostly to Ralph Lauren re-inventing it in the early 1970s – so pairing one with another Ivy League staple makes for a look that, although safe, still graduates magna cum laude.

Lightweight chinos in neutral and pastel shades work best. Never wear a red pair, unless your name’s Teddie or Seb, you wear a signet ring and you may or may not have once stuck something in a pig’s head that you really (really) shouldn’t have.

massimo dutti 2016

With A Jumper

Unlike smart twill shirts, Oxfords are characterised by their slightly coarser texture, something which makes them the perfect partner for knitwear you can really sink your teeth into.