“ Oxfords , not Brogues . ”
the Kingsman mantra that refers to two types of shoes * --------------- and how it’s commonplace to get them mixed up , but should be avoided at all costs .
so , Oxfords refers to shoes that really gained popularity at Oxford University , back in the day , earning the name . they reference plain shoes that have a closed lacing system , giving them their classy , refined look . perfect for businesswear and formal occasions , which wealthy men have attended their whole lives . follows the whole “ less is more ” approach , where the plainer the shoe , the more of an impression it leaves when paired with a fancy suit .
Broguing refers to the decorative piece atop the Oxford shoes --- not a separate shoe style , but an addition to the Oxford setup . typically created for countrymen back in the day , who had to cross rough terrain and fields and bogs etc . in other words , places you would never see a gentleman of high stature , surely ! the broguing helped prevent water from filling the shoes , and apparently , these additional pieces were made of untanned leather and fur to keep the feet warm . functional footwear , over fashionable footwear .
the history of “ Oxfords not Brogues ” would therefore suggest that :
the connotation of something functional and ‘ common ’ would essentially ruin the timeless , classy nature of Oxford shoes --- as a dark metaphor of the strict regulations behind recruiting new Kingsman . and even note how Harry had to fight his case for the Unwins to join in the first place , and even after their contributions , they had to fight for their equality
Kingsman is rooted around that typical sense of class - heirarchy and snobbery that we’ve come to know and love :///
tradition seems to be the backbone of everything Kingsman stand for --- and also a primary reason they struggle to keep up with the times
the ‘ words to live by ’ , were referenced by a traditionalist fashion - setter , when uttered by Harry Hart --- that typically , Oxfords have been worn with suits , and always look sharper with suits . knowing the difference can sometimes make a difference
Oxford University , as one of the high - brow locations that inspired the name of the shoes , also plays a huge role in Kingsman’s recruitment system . this we already know , passed from generation to generation a need to hire the Oxfords , and not the Brogues
even sounds a bit like a test itself --- if a candidate can ascertain the difference , then he or she is worthy of application for the secret service
