Have you ever wondered what loafers are? Since its inception in Norway in 1930, the classic loafer has been a staple piece of menswear. The brief history of the loafer is as follows:
- 1930: Nils Gregoryiusson Tveranger in Norway introduces a new design, the 'Aurland Moccasin'. It was later renamed the "Aurland Shoe".
- Late 1930s: New Hampshire's Spaulding family starts to make shoes inspired by Tveranger's design. They call them "loafers"
- 1934: G.H. 1934: G.H. Bass starts making loafers under the alias 'Weejuns' (as if, Nor- wegians).
- 1950s: The men's casual shoe market was dominated by loafers.
Loafers are a staple of menswear, even though they move in and out with fashion trends. Loafers have evolved to be more creative and diverse over the years. Designers push the boundaries of casual footwear, combining high-fashion fearlessness and classic, comfortable style.
We're giving the loafer some love today with our essential guide to how to wear the best loaves for men. They are the most loved slip-on shoe by menswear.
As you can see, changes happen after you've been around almost 80 years. The loafer has been updated and adapted to the changing times, so it is constantly evolving. These are some styles that you might come across when searching for the perfect loafer.
The Penny Loafer
Classic as it gets. The penny loafer features a leather strap running across the top, and a slot in the middle that is just large enough to hold small coins. According to one theory, the coin was created by students at American prep schools in the 1950s as a fashion statement. One theory states that the coin was used to carry emergency numbers. The style is a fashion icon in any case.
The Tassel Loafer
Although the origins of the tassel loafer remain a mystery, one story suggests that a Hungarian-American actor owned a pair Oxfords with tassels at their ends. The Alden Shoe Company was given the task of creating a slip-on design that featured the tassel as decoration. After experimenting with the design, they released the shoe in 1950. The tassel loafer became a huge hit.
The Snaffle Loafer
This one is Gucci's. In 1968, the Gucci Loafer (or snaffle loafer) was created. The distinctive feature of the snaffle loafer was its golden brass strap that resembled a horse's nose bit. Gucci made the loafer, which was traditionally brown, black so it could be worn with suits. The loafer revolution was born and celebrities like Gianni Agnelli, John F. Kennedy and others started to wear the shoes.
The Apron Loafer
Apron loafers can be identified by the visible edges or stitching that finish off the top of the toe, thereby creating a kind of 'apron" along the shoe's front. Apron loafers, also known as moctoe, are made from a separate piece or leather that extends from below the shoe's top line. This stitching line creates the illusion of a crease between the top and bottom of the shoe.
Inspiration and How to Wear Loafers
The first half of the battle is knowing the options. The next step after you have a pair of loafers in your closet, is to learn how to wear them with style.
Loafers can be worn as a substitute for any other shoe, and add a touch of class to your casual outfit. You can wear casual loafers with khakis and denim, or sockless shorts in warmer seasons.
If you prefer something casual, go for jeans and a T-shirt. If you like more style, a shirt and chinos are better.
Loafers with Jeans
My favorite way to wear jeans is with a loafer. It allows me to wear my favourite denim, but it's more stylish and dressed up. This is where the rules go out the window. However, our long advice is to keep your jeans shorter than the rest. Loafers will make baggy jeans look terrible if they are too long. You can also wear ripped, selvedge or washed jeans. Opt for contrasting colours, and make sure the top half complements the bottom. This means that you can't wear sportswear on top.
Loafers with a Blazer
The loafers and blazer combo is another favorite of D'Marge. This combination is smart casual. You can wear single or double breasted jackets, as well as jeans, trousers, and chinos. It is crucial to match the trouser length and colour. A fitted t-shirt and blazer are our preferred style. This keeps it casual but not too formal.
Loafers with Trousers
Summer events and nights are ideal for the combination of a chino and loafer. Men prefer khaki, creme, and blue Trousers. While brighter trousers look cool, they limit the options for coloured loafers. Wear your chinos with a shirt, polo shirt, and a belt. My friends, enjoy.
Loafers with a Suit
A suit will always look good with loafers. Make sure your trouser is at the ankle. It is up to you to decide whether to sock. This is the big question. It is easy to forget that fashion rules can be broken and it all comes down to individual preference. Loafers and socks are like pocket squares. You can wear them if they appeal to you, or you can take them off if not. Sockless looks are very trendy right now, so it's worth considering if you have the occasion and weather.
Loafers with Shorts
This is also my least favorite way to wear loafers. Why? It's a little preppy and douchy. You're in mid-summer and you're going to a polo or rooftop party. For some reason, you feel it's a great idea to wear shorts with loafers. You can do it. We recommend that you wear tailored shorts at the knee, but no shorter than that. Also, a belt and tailored shirt are recommended.
Loafers with a Tuxedo
Black tie shoes have been accepted as black tie footwear for a long time using velvet slippers. A pair of polished black leather loafers is also an option if you want to break the rules. For a variety of styles and colours, see the above. If possible, match colours. If in doubt, wear black.
