The 7 Best Men’s Loafers, From Formal to Casual | Cool Material (2024)

FAQs

Which company has best loafers? ›

Horsebit Or Gucci Loafers. Gucci loafers are the most formal. The snaffle, or metal bar, in the center of the vamp is what makes a Gucci loafer. It was actually designed to look like a horse's bit by the great Italian designer Aldo Gucci in 1963.

The style which is most commonly seen, known as a loafer, slippers, or penny loafers in American culture, has a moccasin construction. One of the first designs was introduced in London by Wildsmith Shoes, called the Wildsmith Loafer.

Loafers are never out of style. Loafers are classic versatile and cool, and there are plenty of little tweaks that brands can make to them so that they feel especially fresh like adding some thick sole or with a flat penny.

Traditionally, loafers come in regular leather or suede. Suede is usually considered more casual, but that doesn't mean you can't wear them with a dressier outfit. Suede versions also often come in more color varieties if you want to stray from the classic black or brown look.

Nike is the most popular sneaker brand in the United States, followed by Adidas and New Balance. To no one's surprise Nike is the leading sneaker brand in all our measured brand KPIs. It is rivaled only by Adidas in brand awareness, while New Balance and Skechers jointly rank third in brand ownership share.

It is always a good idea to have a quality pair brown or black leather shoes in your closet. Its versatility will be appropriate for both formal and casual occasions. However, don't be afraid to experiment with color.

With an emphasis on craftsmanship, labels like Church's, G.H. Bass, and Grenson also join Gucci on the list of need-to-know brands that are dominating in the loafer department, from the chunky styles to the slim suede and leather driving loafers.

Also, a little tip, if you are unsure of what color loafer to go for, the safest bet is black. Black loafers are versatile and will look good with any outfit. Don't let this discourage you from matching bright-colored loafers.

In most business and professional environments, it isn't appropriate to show your bare ankle. In these instances, you'll always want to pair your loafers with dress socks. Loafers are designed to fit snuggly, so dress socks will be thin enough to comfortably fit while also tying together your look.

What loafers to wear with suit? ›

Penny loafers are a bit more formal, while tassel loafers can be worn both formally and informally. If you're unsure which to go with, we recommend choosing penny loafers. They pair well with any type of suit and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

At the office or for a casual evening out, it's always more comfortable to wear socks with loafers to keep your feet from freezing in rain or when temperatures drop. In winter or mid-season, the loafer-sock combo will be a formidable fashion ally.

Loafers, in all their forms, are a timeless wardrobe essential. This season, however, chunky lug-sole styles are the undeniable standout, pairing well with everything from modern workwear to warming winter dresses.

A slim or straight-leg cut often works best with loafers, creating a clean, streamlined look. Opt for Dark Wash: Dark wash jeans exude a more polished appearance, making them an excellent choice when pairing with loafers. They effortlessly transition from day to night.

Opt for casual elegance by wearing loafers with chinos or jeans for outings with friends or casual workdays. Transition seamlessly to semi-formal events by pairing them with tailored trousers. Loafers also work well for relaxed gatherings, date nights, and even certain business-casual settings.

With her black patent Anello & Davide loafers, distinctive black Launer handbag and black or white gloves, Elizabeth II knew what worked and used that knowledge. The queen was once described as “power dressing in extremis” for using vibrant shades to make herself stand out from the crowd.

Penny Loafers

The history of the loafers continues thanks to James Dean, Buddy Holly, and Elvis (and the fact that sneakers usually weren't allowed inside the classroom). The Penny Loafer became a trendsetter for teenage footwear. Bright, white socks completed the “Ivy League” look.

“They're easy to slip on, easy to slip off. They look great sockless, which is useful on hot days. And they're just generally more lounge-y than a pair of lace-ups. If your style leans dressy, loafers can also work with everything from smart-casual all the way up to a suit.”