THE JOURNAL
Sometime last year, loafers re-emerged as fashion’s most popular shoe. And we’re pleased to announce that, a year on, the wear-with-anything silhouette is still the hottest thing you can get your hands on, or feet in.
Loafers can effortlessly dress an outfit up – or casually tone it down – and they may just be the easiest shoes to slip into, other than actual slippers. To help you find your feet, we’ve rounded up seven of our favourite designer pairs. These will certainly see you through summer, but they may even make a solid ground for your outfits for the rest of the year – just see for yourself below.
01. The Gucci horsebit pair
Trust Gucci to put his signature twist on a classic, as it’s done with this pair of timeless loafers. Referencing its equestrian roots, the Italian luxury brand has replaced penny slots with its very own horsebit hardware. The label has opted for a supple leather construction in a rich burgundy hue, which makes a refined alternative to classic brown styles.
02. The George Cleverley penny style
George Cleverley represents the pinnacle of British style and craftsmanship, and we can see why – all its shoes are Goodyear welted and crafted with the finest leathers. Every pair, including these beige Cannes suede loafers, is considered down to the last detail – these, for instance, have high-walled round toes, which will make them exceptionally comfortable, whether you wear them with no-show socks or ankle ones.
03. The G.H. Bass & Co. all-time classics
If you’re in the market for a truly timeless pair that will never go out of style, look no further than G.H. Bass & Co.’s Weejuns. The glossed leather and hand-stitched seams with tonal waxed thread give them a retro appeal that’ll complement anything from jeans to white trousers and formal get-ups.
04. The TOM FORD dress shoes
TOM FORD is known the world over for its exquisite tailoring. However, the American luxury label deserves just as much recognition for its formal accessories and footwear. Take these Sean loafers. They’re designed in an elegant almond-toe shape and finished with gold-tone buckles that can easily ground any suit.
05. The Brunello Cucinelli burnished loafers
Brunello Cucinelli creates for longevity, which is why the Italian brand relies only on the highest-quality raw materials for its collections. The supple leather on these loafers has been slightly burnished across the toes, promising an even better patina over time.
06. The Bottega Veneta knotted pair
Previously issued in rather understated iterations, Bottega Veneta’s latest version of its popular Astaire loafers spotlights the Italian label’s leather expertise in all its glory. In lieu of classic penny slots, the brand has opted for neatly crafted knots, made from the same butter-smooth leather as the rest of the shoe.
07. The Versace two-tone must-haves
Two-tone loafers are enjoying quite the popularity boost at the moment. And since brands such as Versace have jumped on the monochromatic palette, it’s shown no signs of slowing down. We like this pair for a few reasons – silver-tone Medusa horsebits replace penny slots, while the square-toe shape give them a 1970s-inspired appeal.