Preppy, classic and cool, loafers are undoubtedly the shoe to step out in for autumn and winter 2024.
With a tidal wave of loafer styles walking the runways at fashion week as well as hitting shops right now, there’s enough variation to suit any style, from chunky lug soles to slimline and elegant patent leather.
‘Sexy’ is perhaps the one adjective they’re not commonly assigned, even if plenty come with a heel attached right now. However if ‘stylish’ is a more important attribute for your footwear, you absolutely can’t go wrong by slipping on the iconic shoe this season.
The origins of the loafer are contested, but over the past 100 years they’ve had plenty on notable moments. Gucci has been incredibly influential in the style’s popularity, having recently marked the 70th anniversary of its famous Horsebit Loafer, inspired by its founder, Guccio Gucci and as popular today as when the style was first released. This season Gucci creative director Sabato De Sarno has introduced some outrageously-high platform pairs, in the house’s red Rosso Ancora leather, as well as monogram canvas.
L-R, top: Gucci; Nicole Rebstock; Prada. Bottom: Dries Van Noten; Mi Piaci; Kathryn Wilson
One of the most iconic iterations of the loafer is the “Penny Loafer,” which emerged in the 1930s. They are defined by their horizontal strap, or “saddle,” across the instep, originally designed to hold a penny for good luck or as a fashion statement.
A cost-per-wear win, loafers can be worn with almost anything this season. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber have been stepping out wearing flippy skirts and ankle socks with their clunky, thick-soled versions, while more minimalist smoking-slipper styles favoured by Nicole Kidman and Dakota Johnson look great with wide-leg pants and blazer. Heeled loafers are a perfect feminine option with workwear for the office.
Finally, the two-toned option, like our favourite pair from Nicole Rebstock, is particularly desirable and offers a fashion-forward option to wear with everything from tailored trousers to jeans or slim-line knit dresses.
L-R: Top: Country Road, EOS; Proenza Schouler. Bottom: Zara; Seed Heritage; Reformation
