If you’ve ever spent a Saturday in Oxford, Mississippi, you know the Square isn't just a place to shop. It’s a vibe. It’s where the humidity meets high fashion, and right in the middle of it all sits Hinton & Hinton Oxford MS. Honestly, it’s one of those places that feels like it’s been there forever, mostly because it has. Since 1991, they’ve been the go-to for anyone who needs to look like they belong in a Grove tent but also wants to feel comfortable enough to survive a Southern humidity spike.
Most people think of it as just another high-end boutique. They’re kinda right, but also totally wrong. It’s more of a curated experience that balances that old-school Southern charm with brands you’d actually find in a GQ spread.
The Story Behind the Square’s Favorite Corner
Forrest and Steve Hinton—a father-son duo—opened the doors back in the early nineties. That’s a lifetime in the world of retail. While other shops come and go like seasonal allergens, Hinton & Hinton stuck. Why? Because they understood early on that Oxford isn’t just a college town; it’s a lifestyle hub.
Mark Shoemake, who’s been the manager since 2001, actually started there as an Ole Miss student. That’s a pretty common thread in Oxford. People come for the degree and stay for the community. Mark’s seen it all—from dressing a freshman for their first fraternity formal to helping a regular pick out a suit for their daughter’s wedding.
It’s personal.
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They’ve had some big names walk through those doors too. We're talking the Mannings, Tom Brokaw, and even Elvis Costello. When you’re at 135 Courthouse Square, you never really know who’s going to be browsing the shoe room next to you.
What You’ll Actually Find Inside
You’ve got two sides to this story: the original Hinton & Hinton and the "Her" extension.
The men’s side is legendary. It’s not just racks of clothes; it’s divided into specific zones like "The Suit Room" and "The Shoe Room." They carry the heavy hitters. You’ve got Barbour for when you want that rugged-but-refined look, Peter Millar for the golf course or the office, and Patagonia for literally everything else.
Here’s a quick look at the brands that keep people coming back:
- Peter Millar: The unofficial uniform of the SEC.
- Barbour: Because everyone needs a waxed jacket that lasts thirty years.
- Smathers & Branson: Those needlepoint belts that signify you definitely know where the best tailgate is.
- Filson: For the guys who actually go outside but want to look good doing it.
- Billy Reid: Bringing that Alabama-born high fashion to the Mississippi hills.
The women’s boutique, Hinton & Hinton HER, is right next door at 137 Courthouse Square. It’s curated similarly—upscale but approachable. They stock things like Free People, Citizens of Humanity, and some seriously high-end fur vests that cost more than my first car (looking at you, $1,200 mink nylon vests).
Why It Works When Everything Is Online
Look, we all buy stuff on our phones. It’s easy. But you can’t get a tailored fit from an app. You can’t feel the weight of a $600 sport coat through a screen.
Hinton & Hinton thrives because of the "Oxford factor." On game day weekends, the energy is different. The store stays open late, the staff is running full tilt, and you’re getting advice from people who actually know what looks good in the Grove. There’s a specific aesthetic in Oxford—it’s polished but never stiff.
They also do custom work. Need a dress shirt that actually fits your neck and arms at the same time? They do that. Custom-tailored sports coats? Check. It’s that level of service that keeps the "New Oxford" (the luxury condos and high-end restaurants) and the "Old Oxford" (the legacy families and professors) both shopping at the same spot.
The Realistic Side of Shopping Here
Let's be real for a second: it’s not cheap. If you’re looking for a $15 t-shirt, you’re in the wrong place. You’re paying for the quality and the name. A pair of Oncept sneakers will run you around $300, and those AS98 boots aren't far behind.
But here’s the thing—the stuff lasts. A Barbour jacket from Hinton’s isn't a fast-fashion piece you toss after six months. It’s an investment. People in Oxford value things that age well, just like the town itself.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Oxford, don’t just pop in on a whim during a home game Saturday unless you love crowds. It’s a madhouse.
Instead, try a Tuesday morning. The Square is quieter, the coffee from Uptown is still hot, and you can actually talk to Mark or the staff about what you’re looking for. They know their inventory inside and out. If you’re a student, it’s the place to go for recruitment clothes. If you’re an alum, it’s where you go to replace the Peter Millar shirt you’ve worn since 2012.
Essential Details for Your GPS
- Address: 135 & 137 Courthouse Square, Oxford, MS 38655
- Hours: Generally 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Saturday.
- Gameday Tip: They usually extend their hours when Ole Miss is playing at home.
- Pro Tip: Park behind the Square if you can find a spot; the front is always packed.
Final Thoughts on the Oxford Icon
There is something special about a family-owned business that survives three decades in a prime location. Hinton & Hinton Oxford MS isn't just selling clothes; they're selling the idea of Oxford. It's a mix of tradition, a little bit of swagger, and a whole lot of Southern hospitality.
Whether you’re looking for a new pair of Alden shoes or just want to see if you can spot a Manning, it’s worth the walk-through. You might walk out a few hundred dollars lighter, but you’ll definitely look better.
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Actionable Next Steps:
- Check your wardrobe: If you have a big event coming up in Oxford, don't wait until the day of. Call them at (662) 236-1381 to see if they have your size in stock for brands like Peter Millar or Barbour.
- Visit during the week: For the best service and a chance to browse the "Shoe Room" without elbowing through a crowd, aim for a weekday morning.
- Follow their arrivals: Their inventory moves fast with the seasons. Keep an eye on their local social updates or their website to snag new collections before the students clear them out for recruitment or formal season.