Loafers have quickly overtaken other types of shoes to become the best-selling type of footwear, especially in a hot and humid country like Pakistan, due to their versatile nature, convenient design, and airy feel. Therefore, Loafers are a staple in every man's wardrobe.
Loafers come in different shapes, designs, and patterns. Due to the sheer variety of options, one can easily get overwhelmed when shopping for a loafer shoe.
To address the confusion and make your shopping easier, we have covered an in-depth buyer's guide in this article. The buyer guide consists of - a brief history of loafers, the best loafers for men in 2024, loafer style trends in 2024, outfit combinations, and more.
So, without further ado, let's get right into it.
A Brief History: The Birth of a Modern Versatile Shoe
Loafers can trace back their history to the period after World War 2, when men needed a more relaxed footwear option compared to the traditional trench boot. Originally designed as a stylish and comfortable shoe option for casual to formal occasions, loafers have undergone significant modern development over the years.
The first loafer design to earn mass appeal was the penny loafers. It was used by ivy league students who were looking for a more relaxed style of dress shoe. In their heyday, loafers were the zenith of aristocracy and nobility, worn with lounging attire. Usually, these loafers were constructed with fine calf leather and other luxurious materials.
The shoe slowly amassed mass popularity as well and started to appear in the wardrobe of the common folk, albeit in the less fancy and more rigid cow leather.
Loafers have become a staple in shoe collections today. From the classic design with minimal embellishments to the iconic Gucci horse-bit loafer, they come in all sorts of different styles to suit modern footwear needs.
Best Types of Loafers for Men in 2024
Penny Loafers
Penny loafers are a classic style of loafer with a strap across the front of the shoe, often featuring a small slot or "penny" for decoration. They are typically made of leather and have a low heel.
Tassel Loafers
Tassel loafers are similar to penny loafers but feature tassels on the front of the shoe instead of a strap. This style of loafer is often seen as more formal and is popular for business casual or dressy occasions.
Bit Loafers
Bit loafers are distinguished by a metal ornament, typically in the shape of a horse bit, on the front of the shoe. This adds a touch of sophistication to the classic loafer style and is often seen as a more upscale option.
Venetian Loafers
Venetian loafers are a sleek and minimalistic style of loafer with a simple design and no embellishments or decorations. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Driving Loafers
Driving loafers, also known as moccasins, are a casual and comfortable style of loafer designed for driving in mind. They typically have a rubber sole for added traction and comfort while driving, making them a popular choice for everyday wear.
Loafer outfit combos
Loafers can be worn casually or dressed up with a suit. The flexibility allows loafers to be paired with multiple outfits to create a stellar look. Here are some loafer outfit combos to try.
Loafers combination with Business Casual Outfit
Adorn yourself in a classic chino and a button-up shirt. Pair the outfit with a tassel or penny loafers to create a timeless and elegant look. Make sure the pants are hemmed to the appropriate length so there is no excess fabric bunching up around the ankles to create a more seamless transition to the feet and make the loafers the star of your outfit.
This look also works well with a blazer worn over the shirt. It creates a more formal appeal, so make sure you have the shirt tucked in when pairing loafers with a business casual outfit and a blazer.
Loafer Combination with Formal Suit
When pairing loafers with a formal suit, it is essential to choose the right style and color to ensure a polished and sophisticated look. Opt for a classic loafer style, such as a penny loafer with no brouging or perforation. Ideally, the penny loafer should be made of plain leather.
Choose black or dark brown loafers colors as they are the most formal and traditionally used with formal suits. Make sure the loafers are well-polished and in good condition to maintain a professional appearance.
The loafers should fit well and be comfortable to wear for extended periods, as you will likely be on your feet for most of the day. When wearing loafers with a suit, it is advisable to keep the rest of your outfit simple and streamlined to let the shoes stand out. Overall, pairing loafers with a formal suit can create a stylish and sophisticated look that is both professional and fashionable.
Loafer Combination with Casual Wear
Pairing loafers with casual wear is a great way to elevate your everyday look. Opt for any classic pair of loafers, at HopKicks we personally prefer chunky loafers with our casual outfits. Select a neutral but fun color like tan to easily match a variety of outfits and give them a flair. You can also experiment with loafers in different materials like suede or velvet to make your outfit stand out.
For a casual look, style your loafers with a pair of relaxed-fit jeans and a cozy sweater. Add some accessories, like a statement belt or a watch, to complete the outfit. This combination creates a polished yet laid-back look that is perfect for weekend outings or casual work settings. Loafers are versatile shoes that can easily transition from day to night, making them a wardrobe staple for any fashion enthusiast.
Benefits of Loafers over Type of Shoes
Versatility: Loafers are a versatile shoe option that can be dressed up or down, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. Compared to other shoe types like an oxford, which can only be dressed up, loafers make a versatile addition to any wardrobe.
Convenience and Ease of Wear: Loafers are easy to slip on and off, making them a convenient choice for those who are always on the go. They do not require laces or straps, so they can be easily slipped on and off without any hassle.
Breathability: Loafers have an open design that allow for better breathability compared to other types of other closed laces shoes. Therefore, loafers are a great option for warner weather as your feet will stay cool and comfortable throughout the day when wearing loafers.
Are Loafers in style in 2024?
Loafers have always been a staple in men's fashion, and in 2024, the trend continues with a focus on handcrafted loafer shoes for men that combine sophistication with lasting comfort. The sheer variety of Loafer shoes makes them a great choice for any occasion, resulting in the loafers being the go-to shoe for men's wardrobe.
FAQs
Do loafers fit big or small?
Loafers typically fit true to size, but it can vary depending on the brand and style. It is recommended to try on different sizes to find the best fit for you.
Can you wear loafers with socks?
You can wear no-show socks for a more casual and laid-back look, or opt for patterned or colorful socks for a more fashion-forward statement. Just make sure that the socks are not too bulky, as loafers are typically a sleek and streamlined shoe style.
Can you wear loafer shoes with suit?
Yes, you can wear loafers with a suit, as long as the loafers are a more formal style and are in a color that complements the suit. Loafers can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to a suit and are a popular choice for a more relaxed and stylish look. Just make sure that the loafers are polished and in good condition to ensure they are appropriate for a more formal outfit.
Can you wear loafers with jeans?
Yes, you can definitely wear loafers with jeans. Loafers are a versatile choice of footwear that can be dressed up or down. They can add a touch of sophistication to a casual jeans outfit, making it perfect for a smart-casual or business-casual look.
Does loafer have laces?
Some loafers do have laces, but traditional loafers typically do not. Traditional loafers are slip-on shoes with no lace closure. However, there are variations of loafers that have laces, such as tassel loafers and penny loafers with a lace-up design.
Are loafer shoes formal?
Loafer shoes can be considered formal depending on the style and material. In general, leather loafers in classic designs and dark colors are more formal and can be worn to work or formal events. On the other hand, loafers made of suede or in more casual designs may not be appropriate for formal occasions. It is important to consider the overall outfit and dress code when deciding whether loafers are suitable for a formal setting.