Few shoe styles are as perennially stylish as the loafer. With a history dating back as far as the early 1900s, loafers became increasingly popular around the ’50s and ’60s when they became the shoe du jour for Ivy League students in America. This was also the time when the iconic Gucci Horsebit was born — a stalwart style in the Maison’s collections to this day.
Since their inception, we’ve seen many different iterations of the design come and go, yet classics like the penny loafer remain in high demand. If you’ve been thinking about how to fill the gaps in our wardrobes (and shoe shelves), what better staple to invest in than a timeless pair of loafers?
From polished patent to classic tasselled, we’ve rounded up a selection of this season’s trending loafer styles to consider adding to cart.
The Penny Loafer
An iconic silhouette since the mid-1900s, the penny loafer is proving to be a steadfast style this season, appearing in the collections of multiple local footwear designers. Known for its signature split strap, the shoe got its name back in the ’50s, when people would keep coins in their shoes in case they needed to make an emergency call. Given their evergreen nature, they’d make a smart investment for anyone who prefers an unfussy silhouette.
Chunky
For a more contemporary variation, you can’t go wrong with a chunky loafer. Featuring a sizable and toothy rubber sole, this style can literally elevate your look. We suggest pairing them with your favourite jeans or dressing them up with a pair of sleek tights and a skirt for winter.
Tasselled
For a style that’s understated with a touch of Western flair, you’ll want to reach for a pair of tasselled loafers. Initially rising to popularity amongst mid-century men, tasselled loafers have since solidified themselves as a versatile silhouette for all genders. With equal focus placed on function and form, what’s not to love?
Loafer mules
One of the worst parts about buying new shoes is breaking them in. Thankfully, one of this season’s trending loafer styles are a hybrid of a mule and a loafer — meaning you can slip them on and wear them with ease without worrying about the subsequent blisters.
