It was Gucci’s Alessandro Michele who, in 2015, released fur-lined black leather loafers adorned with a horse bit. The quirky, luxurious update on classic loafer shoes had the fashion world head over heels. Leandra Medine wore hers pre-season – in August – with denim cut-offs. Marc Jacobs Instagrammed himself wearing his at home with silk pajamas. Eva Chen, Instagram’s Director of Fashion Partnerships and the former Editor in Chief of Lucky magazine, took one of her signature shoes-and-bag-in-a-cab shots featuring the new slides.
This footwear was just one of many home runs for Gucci in 2015, but the update on the classic was a reminder of just how much everyone loves the original – a sentiment made clear by the number of fresh designer loafers that came up in FW16. Personalized embroidered styles, velvets, exotic skins, even the ultimate throwback – penny loafers – all made an appearance on celebrities and the runway. Themes like classics, modern classics and athleisure-inspired, hyper-modern pieces dominated the new loafer market. How to style them nowadays is a matter finding your favorite.
Classics
Church's loafers are the epitome of traditional footwear. Using leather in polished black, a variety of browns, oxblood and variations of subdued neutrals, Church’s stands for grounded sophistication and practicality. The loafers can be paired with on-trend pieces like frayed and cropped flares.
Tassel loafers, buckles, horse bits and brogue details add some pared-back decadence to the traditional end of the spectrum, resulting in subtly beautiful, luxurious options.
Pleated skirts complement these traditional loafers for women especially well. Mid-length or ankle-grazing designs allude to those worn in the early 20th century, from suffragettes straight through to the Jazz Age. The 1920s have consistently been a decade of sartorial interest – thanks in part to the huge success of wonderfully costumed dramas like Boardwalk Empire and Downton Abbey. You could take a hint from this era and style your loafers with a slick leather jacket and white crisp button down shirt to keep from looking like you’re going to a themed New Year’s Eve party.
Modern classics
Today, you'll find many a sleek, 21st century update on the classic loafer – similar in shape with a contemporary design twist for added visual interest. Marni loafers incorporate color blocking with deep jewel tones and elegantly foiled metallics. Architecturally shaped adornments replace classic horse bits and buckles, but the stately charm is not lost. The oversized leather bows topping some of the label's styles add a bit of fun to your footwear and are still appropriate for the office.
Modern classic loafers work best with strong colors and clean lines. Consider pairing these with minimally embellished shifts, pencil skirts, shirt dresses and mid-length skirts. Look to designers like Rick Owens and Yohji Yamamoto for inspiration on longer dress and skirt styles. Substitute the ballet flats you normally pair with solid wool miniskirts or stretch jersey maxis for a solid pair of leather or suede loafers. They'll serve as a welcome alternative to ultra-feminine shoes.
Paul Smith dresses are an excellent place to start when building an outfit for modern classic loafers. The brand’s deep solid colors in rich silks and carefully cut lines lend themselves well to the clean lines of modern loafers.
Athleisure
The athleisure trend is everywhere, so it’s no surprise that comfortable,
high-performance design has managed to spread to traditional footwear. Stella McCartney loafers are a prime example of the perfect blend of classic and sporty. These colorful loafers have rubber soles and tennis-shoe inspired uppers, enabling a quick dash from the office to your after work cardio barre class. You could pair your athletic-leaning loafers with a white button-down shirt or fitted sweater. Saint Laurent jeans in a boyfriend or skinny fit with a mid or high rise are a clear choice to complete your look.
Prada's spin on athletic loafers sees thick soles paired with classic brogued uppers, creating a true blend of athleisure and tradition.
A fashion staple for the ages, loafers are a classic that's anything but staid. Style your choice of loafer with separates both traditional and modern; sleek and refined or punk-like and casual. No matter your preference, a natty pair of loafers will see you through countless seasons.