When it comes to stylish yet practical footwear, you can’t go wrong with loafers! While some shoes, like Crocs (which I really can’t stand), clunky New Balance sneakers, and slip-ons, have gained a following, they represent a shift toward anti-fashion - a trend that emerged during the two “idle” years of the pandemic.
Loafers, however, strike a different chord. They embody comfort and ease while carrying a rich historical significance. For nearly a century, this shoe style has been a staple for the fashion-conscious, serving as a “uniform” for everyone from schoolboys to A-list celebrities. To label loafers as merely a trend or fashion statement would be a disservice; if they were a person, they’d be a seasoned veteran with gray hair - wise and timeless, rather than a rookie trying to make a splash.
Take the film House of Gucci (2021), for instance, which celebrates the iconic Horsebit loafers that are proudly “grown in-house.”
Loafers offer numerous benefits: they’re comfortable, versatile, ageless, gender-neutral, and easy to slip on. Most importantly, they allow you to step out with confidence, without the fear of being labeled a fashion victim or appearing like you’re trying too hard.
There are various stories surrounding the origins of loafers, but it’s widely believed that this shoe style was “unlocked” for modern gentlemen's wardrobes in the 1930s, drawing inspiration from the shoes worn by Norwegian fishermen catching salmon.
GH Bass Weejuns are a key design in the culture of loafers.
One pivotal moment in loafer history came in 1936 when GH Bass mass-produced the “Weejuns” (short for “Norwegian”), which laid the groundwork for loafer culture. To this day, the Weejun remains a bestseller. GH Bass also introduced the classic “penny loafer,” featuring a leather strap across the shoe where wearers could insert a penny - a practical detail for schoolboys needing to make calls from public phone booths back in the day.
The loafers style that "wins over" streetwear fans.
The writer of this article owns 5 to 7 pairs of penny loafers...
Even in the smartphone era, loafers stand strong as a practical choice. There are countless variations to suit individual tastes and styles, including two-tone designs, embroidery, decorative patterns, and even chunky, streetwear-inspired options. No matter who you are, there's a pair of loafers that perfectly matches your personality.
As someone who owns around 5-7 pairs of penny loafers, I can confidently say that they’re a timeless addition to any wardrobe. So, whether you’re dressing up for an occasion or keeping it casual, loafers are your go-to footwear!
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