Men’s loafers are considered as a fashion staple. It is very simple to wear, all you have to do is to slide your feet into it. Loafers are the most stylish classic footwear of all time. Investing in this type of shoe will not make you feel remorseful at all. It’s because it is very minimalistic and extremely flexible for various seasons and styles. However, you have to do the right styling in order to do justice to this noteworthy footwear.
Different Styles of Men’s Loafers
Before we jump in the list of our favorite and most comfortable loafer shoes, below the different types of loafers explained.
Penny Loafers
Penny Loafers are impressively smart. It’s been a century ago since this classic footwear was discovered yet it still looks classy. In the 1930s, students who want to make a statement would insert coins into the leather strap across the saddle. Thus, the name “Penny Loafer” became the typical name for this chic slip-on.
Another theory reveals that the penny will be used by the wearer for making an emergency phone call. These penny men’s loafers work best for smarter outfits such as summer attires. You can combine it with jackets, t-shirts, chinos and even tailored shorts.
Wildsmith Loafers
According to many sources, the history of the moccasin as we know it dates back to 1926. Originally, it was an order made by King George V from a London shoe company tailor-made (notably by Raymond Lewis Wildsmith, the grandson of Matthew and Rebecca Wildsmith). The king’s wish was to own a pair of indoor shoes with a casual style (and which could be put on easily). It was only after a few years that the famous Wildsmith Loafer moccasin evolved into a real pair of shoes made to be worn outdoors. Following this, the model was sold by other London shoe companies, under the name “Harrow”. Let it be said, this moccasin considerably inspired the Penny Men’s Loafers . Even today, this style of moccasins continues its history and remains as popular as ever!
Tassel Loafers
Tassel Men’s Loafers were first introduced in the 1940s when Hungarian actor, Paul Lukas, requested New York shoemakers to duplicate the tasseled Oxford style shoes that he bought in Europe. Unfortunately, he was not delighted with the outcome so he tried his luck with Alden Shoe Company.
In 1950, Alden launched it’s first tassel men’s loafers which became an instant hit. In 1957, Brooks Brothers produced its own version of tassel loafers which incorporates unique foxing. During the mid-century, these elegant dress shoes became in demand. Today, the most well-known tassel loafer is the cordovan.
Snaffle Loafers
Snaffle Loafers, also known as Gucci Loafers, can be easily recognized by its golden brass strap on the front. It also looks like a horse’s snaffle. It was first introduced by the founder of Gucci, Guccio Gucci. After WWI, Gucci worked in a London hotel as a lift boy. During those days, he anxiously observed the lifestyle of the elite.
When he returned to Italy, he applied these experiences and produced the first Gucci loafer in 1953. It has a formal appearance, making it perfect for suits. Although, this is quite popular yet we recommend to keep your style simple and go for classic materials and colors. You can also embrace this vintage style by opting for browns and blacks.
Bit Loafers
Created in 1953, Bit Loafer is the little brother of the Penny Loafer ! Behind this iconic model hides a fashion giant: Gucci. This moccasin, created by Aldo Gucci, is directly inspired by the equestrian world, hence its original name: Horsebit.
This is a classic leather moccasin adorned with a metal horse bit. Very quickly, this new moccasin found itself at the feet of a certain number of businessmen on Wall Street. This long-awaited success certainly comes from its elegance, but also from its wearing comfort. Neither too formal nor too casual, the Bit Loafers also appreciated by some politicians. One could quote George HW Bush and Richard Nixon for example. In France, this moccasin was worn by female fashion icons such as Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot.
Just like the Tassel Loafer , this type of men’s loafers is more marked. The fact remains that it is just as elegant and can be worn in a formal or casual /chic style!
Driving Loafers
Finally, the Driving Loafer (or studded moccasins) was patented in 1963 by Gianni Mostile. As its name may suggest, it is above all a shoe designed for driving. From the outset, this moccasin was aimed at a wealthy clientele, who could then afford a pair of shoes exclusively reserved for driving. It is important to remember that in the 60s the interior of Italian sports cars was quite narrow and restrained. This moccasin, light and comfortable, was therefore intended to facilitate the driving of wealthy gentlemen .! The studs under the shoe protect the leather at the heel and prevent the sole from slipping when the foot is on the pedal. If the style and form have hardly changed, its use has deviated. Comfortable and versatile, the Driving Loafers are no longer exclusively for gentlemen drivers , but for all men! This is a pair that we will prefer in a casual outfit ! We will bet on a beautiful shade, sometimes colorful, and on quality suede!
Other models of moccasins / men’s loafers
Beyond the main models mentioned above, there are other hybrid moccasins, such as the Sleepers , the Kiltie or even the lace-up moccasin !
Best Men’s Loafers Shoes
Without further ado, here’s our list of the best loafers for mean trending this year.
1. Nunn Bush Men’s Strafford Slip-On Loafer
Investing in men’s loafers is practical since it can last a lifetime.
2. Cole Haan Men’s Pinch Tassel Loafer
This is the best match for a suit of chinos.
3. Dockers Men’s Sinclair Kiltie Loafer
If you are looking for something a bit distinct then this is the loafer for you.
4. Bruno Marc Penny Men’s Loafers Moccasins Shoes
Slip-on men’s loafers, designed with moc toe and stitching vamp ,allows for quick and easy on and off. Suitable for driving, party, walking and leisure time and city around
5. Jions Men’s Penny Loafers Moccasin
Don’t be afraid to try other shades. You can match this with gray and beige attires.
6. Polo Ralph Lauren Men’s Reynold Driving Style Loafer
Classic men’s loafers with hand stitched details. The best option for summer.
7. ECCO Men’s S Lite Moc Classic Driving Style Loafer
Crafted from either full-grain leather or premium suede. Ultra-flexible E-DTS LIGHT outsole and innovative ECCO FLUIDFORM Direct Comfort Technology offer lightweight comfort and all-day wearability. Featuring a slightly higher vamp in true moccasin slip-on style for easy on and off
8. Ecco Men’s Classic Penny Loafer
The ultimate classic style.
9. G.H. Bass Larson Penny Loafer
Burgundy is an excellent color, not only will it make you look cool yet it’s also a perfect match for just about anything.
10. Sunrolan Casual Suede Tassel Loafers
A genuine driving shoe that doesn’t break the bank.
11. Izod Edmund Penny Men’s Loafers
These suede men’s loafers are handsome and affordable too!
12. Allen Edmonds Cavanaugh Penny Loafer
These loafers can be an excellent match for chinos, however, it can also look gorgeous on jeans.
13. Cirohuner Men’s Casual Suede Loafers
If you want to add some color to your shoe rack then this pair of suede navy loafers can create a statement without attracting too much attention.
14. Rockport Men’s Classic Penny Loafer
This pair of men’s loafers features a synthetic sole, giving you a comfortable feel.
15. Kenneth Cole Men’s Crespo Loafer
A leather loafer is go-to footwear for dark jeans.
History of Men’s Loafers
How did it begin? Men’s loafers were actually invented in Norway. In 1930, Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger created a loafer style of shoe which he named as ‘Aurland moccasin’. It was allegedly influenced by the indigenous Iroquois.
Later that year in New Hampshire, the Spaulding family imitates Tveranger’s design and named their shoes as “loafers”. In 1934, G.H. Bass created his own version of loafers and called it ‘Weejuns’, which is short for Norwegians. During the 1950s, men began incorporating loafers into their casual look.
Today, men’s loafers have become the trendiest style of shoes in the fashion industry. Through the years, loafers have become distinct and innovative, thanks to the efforts of the designers who continuously push their boundaries.
Leather vs Suede Loafers for Men
Generally, loafers are made of two materials: leather and suede. Each of these has its particular benefits and drawbacks. Leather loafers have a sleek design with a glossy finish. This is the perfect fabric for achieving a smarter look. It can be paired with a complete suit or a casual outfit.
Although, you may need to ensure that it is always clean and polished. Leather loafers are more durable compared to suede loafers.
Moreover, suede loafers should only be worn during the spring and summer seasons. Obviously, you should at least show some respect to your shoes. They are palatial yet extremely delicate. Simply put, you must shield them from moisture at all times.
Suede styles look more casual but it does not mean that you can’t pair them with tailoring. Suede shoes are meant for warm-weather outfits. It is a bit relaxing than it’s autumn or winter counterparts.
Loafing; with or without Socks?
Without a doubt, loafers without socks look clean, comfortable and austere. If you choose to refrain from wearing socks then your outfit must match perfectly. Essentially, the length of your trousers must be a bit shorter to complement your style.
Loafers without socks work great, however, loafers with socks can also look fabulous when done right. Be cautious with your style combination. The colors and patterns of your socks must conform with your attire. Always assure that you have a refined look.
Men’s loafers have definitely come a long way from its humble beginnings. These types of dress shoes are both practical and elegant. It has skyrocketed to fame and continues to endure in the fashion world. So, are you a Gucci or a tassel fanatic? Or perhaps the penny loafer is your favorite. In order to look trendy, always update yourself with the latest trends in the fashion world.
Being born in Italy, Erik Lucatero, got an immediate knack for fashion and style from a young age. When his parents moved from Milan to New York, he attended and graduated from one of the top schools in the world: The Fashion Institute of Technology in Manhattan, New York City. Now he joined our team to help you pass the fashion police exam.
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