Loafers are classic style shoes that can be worn by both the fair sex and men. The main difference from other types of shoes is the presence of a small decorative detail in the form of a fringe or a leather tassel.
Interesting from history
According to legend, patent leather loafers were created by a Dutch shoemaker in 1930. Niels Tweranger made shoes and sold them under the name "Zurlann moccasins". Over time, these shoes began to be exported to other European countries, and from there it migrated to America. Initially worn exclusively by men, everything changed in 1968, when the Gucci fashion house added these shoes to its collection. Women's loafers immediately fell in love with many girls due to their convenience and practicality.
Shoe shape and design
How to distinguish these shoes among many others? Everything is very simple: loafers are shoes that have a low wide heel, but no laces. Their shape resembles the shape of moccasins. They also have a flat sole and a pointed toe, but what sets them apart from moccasins is their low, chunky heel, stiff sole, and leather or suede fringe tassels.
Modern types of loafers are simply amazing! Their design is sodiverse, that every girl is sure to find her perfect match. In the store you can find shoes of any kind and color: patent leather, platform or wedge loafers, leather with a metal buckle, classic suede with the addition of various elements.
Varieties of loafers and the rule for their choice
Loafers are considered one of the most popular types of shoes. These shoes can be conditionally divided into several varieties. So what are they like?
- Classic (also called Venetian) - they are very simple shoes, without unnecessary decorative details, discreet and tasteful.
- Penny loafers are arguably the most versatile footwear, featuring a diamond-cut belt at the top and worn by celebrities such as JFK and Michael Jackson.
- Tassel loafers are a very extravagant type of shoes that can only be combined with classic clothes.
- Loafers with buckle - these shoes are legendary, they became the hallmark of designer Guccio Gucci, it was he who came up with the idea of adding a metallic element.
- Party loafers - usually designed for women, their design is very loose, so they can be worn with skirts and dresses.
Loafers are shoes that fit almost everyone. The main thing is to choose them according to your height and complexion. A lacquered pair of dark-colored shoes with a rough sole will fit perfectly into the image of a girl and emphasize all her fragility and femininity.
Extremely notit is recommended to wear low-heeled loafers for those girls whose legs are below average, and for plump women with large calves, it is better to wear loafers in combination with classic or slim trousers.
Top best combinations of women's loafers with clothes
There must be something attractive about a woman's ankle, otherwise how to explain the fact that loafers are ideally combined with cropped trousers? It can be classic trousers, and skiny, which are so relevant now, and even boyfriend jeans with folds. To create a harmonious look, you can wear a shirt in gentle tones and a jumper in light shades. This combination is suitable for the office, and for a walk with friends. We advise you to choose brown loafers, ranging from light to dark tones. Men's loafers are usually conservative in their choice of colors, but women's models delight girls with a variety of colors.
Patent black moccasins, loafers or slippers look great with leather jackets, so on cool days we recommend trying the following combination: an elegant top or jacket to slightly dilute the brutality of the image, black cropped trousers, preferably tight, and a leather jacket that will add rebellion. You should also pick up an accessory - it can be a bag or jewelry. For example, a bright bag from Michael Kors or a bracelet on your right hand can focus the attention of others on you!
You can experiment a lot with these shoes, try them on with different clothes. However, it does not hurt to know the basic rules for combining things withloafers. So, what exactly do these shoes match with:
- business suits (classic trousers, jackets, shirts, accessories - glasses, plain jewelry or even a bowler hat or borsalino);
- light washed jeans that are very trendy right now;
- dresses made of loose material, such light airy outfits can be worn in summer with light brown loafers.
What to wear with loafers (men)?
Loafers can be ideal casual shoes for men, which can be worn to work in the office, and to an important meeting with partners, and even to a party with friends. The main plus is that they are incredibly comfortable to wear. They used to be considered working class shoes, but in recent years they have become more elegant. In America, loafers are the most popular footwear for undergraduates. Moreover, one variety of these shoes, penny loafers, got its name precisely because of the students. It is said that in order to successfully pass the exams, students put one coin - a penny - in a jumper with a small slot that is in this shoe. This is how loafers got their name.
What to wear with loafers? Men's shoes look best in casual style. This means that the image must contain such items of men's wardrobe as t-shirts, cardigan, jeans, blazer, sports jacket and, of course, shirts of various colors!
Still half a century ago, it was unthinkable to wear loafers with a business suit, but modern modelsallow men to wear these shoes even with dress pants. The main thing is to choose the right color and style. So, for example, black loafers with a discreet design will suit a dark suit. It is important to remember that socks must be included in this combination.
Wear socks or not?
This shoe doesn't have strict rules about it. It all depends on personal preference. Now a very popular trend is Sockless (without socks), so for walking around the city or meeting friends, it is better to wear loafers without socks.
It's better to wear socks for office work or an important meeting, because the rules of etiquette do not allow you to wear business suits with shoes on your bare feet.