Why loafers are the perfect smart shoe to wear every day
You probably haven't failed to notice that loafers are everywhere right now. Previously the footwear of choice for the preppy elite, the classic shoe has been reimagined in recent seasons and updated in a multitude of colours, finishes and materials. And, with the ongoing popularity of flats, this genderless style’s reprisal isn’t wholly surprising. They offer the comfort we’ve come to demand over the last few years yet they're smart enough to wear to the office or on a dinner date too.
A storied history, it’s claimed loafers were first worn by Norwegian fishermen in the 1930s under the guise ‘Weejun’ but the style’s popularity boomed in the 1970s when fashion houses like Gucci and Tod's brought the classic shoe into the fashion discourse.
"The loafer is the best expression of a classic, yet stylish attitude. This is the reason why the loafer is an icon in Tod’s collections, mixed with different pieces of a wardrobe, it plays many roles in a final look," says Walter Chiapponi, the creative director of Tod's.
Indeed, the loafer is a true trans-seasonal shoe that can be styled in a multitude of ways. "I like when they are matched with a very feminine look, like shift dresses, or a sporty piece, like nylon windbreakers, to twist the classic elegance into something new," says Chiapponi.
During autumn and winter, you can wear them with socks and tailored trousers or tights and a mini shift dress; come spring and summer, you can wear them with maxi dresses, tailored shorts or bare legs and mini skirts. The possibilities are endless.
If you are looking to invest in a pair of loafers that you’ll be able to wear for years to come, you’ve arrived in the right place. Below, we bring you the Bazaar edit of the best loafers for 2024. From penny loafers to logo-mania; mules to chunky and patent, there’s a pair for you, whatever your style.
Best loafers to buy now
Simone Rocha
Lovers of whimsical details will enjoy these loafers, designed in a platform style and embellished with chunky pearls. These could be styled with a white linen mini dress in the summer as easily as they can elevate a bundle of layers in the colder months.
The Row
Offering a more subtle approach to the loafer, this slip-on pair from The Row is designed in its signature Quiet Luxury look. The classic style will do the legwork with multiple pieces in your wardrobe, giving the impression of an effortlessly chic outfit that was 'just thrown together'.
Duke + Dexter
Duke + Dexter is the London-based brand that's reimagining the traditional loafer design. Each pair of its penny loafers are hand-made and offer customisable, hand-painted designs- whether you opt for an artistic illustration, personal initials or a memorable date is up to you.
Ganni
Buckle-embellished accessories are a style that Danish-brand Ganni does best, and these round-toe loafers are no exception. Crafted from 100% leather, they feature a sensible heel that's suitable for everyday wear.
Penelope Chilvers
Indulge your wardrobe with these patent dark chocolate loafers from Penelope Chilvers. We'd team the chunky shoe with tailored trousers and a white tee in the summer swapping out for a cosy knit during the colder months.
£219.00 at penelopechilvers.com
Sézane
This monochrome style with gold horsebit and tassel detail can be taken from winter to summer, boardroom to bar, day to night and will add a put-together feel to any attire.
Tod's
Tod's platform loafers are the way to dial up a casual outfit whether in the city or on holiday. Made in Italy, they feature a penny bar, stacked Raffia heel and a soft leather body. This style comes in both brown and white.
Arket
A classic pair of sturdy Penny Loafers will become your wardrobe go-to. A style that you'll be able to bring out year after year – you'll find no end of occasions to pop these on for.
Proenza Schouler
Chunky shoes have been having something of a moment for a while now and loafers are the latest style to put on the pounds. A truly modern take on the classic loafer, this stitched-detail style looks sublime with blue wash denim jeans and a luxe charcoal cashmere cardigan.
£895.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Jimmy Choo
These tan leather Tilda loafers from Jimmy Choo combine a sleek fit with geometric gold detailing for a timeless yet modern design. Pair with a tailored suit and oversized coat in the winter for an effortless, elegant look.
Gucci
If you're into the heavy-logo, preppy look that reigned supreme in the Nineties then get yourself a pair of the Gucci Jordaan loafers. Style with an oversized knit, tailored trousers and a wool overcoat.
Prada
A favourite among celebrities and influencers, these Prada loafers feature the logo on the front with an on-trend chunky body. Totally versatile, these can be as easily dressed up as they can down.
Nodaleto
If you like a little heel, then these patent red loafers are as comfy as flats but will give you desired height. We love these teamed with jeans and a shirt for brunch in the city or worn with a plain knitted maxi during the week.
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