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We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: the single most valuable thing in menswear is versatility. Which is enough reason for us to justify why you need a pair of the best loafers for men in your wardrobe this season.
Going for a preppy Americana look? You’ll need some loafers. Mediterranean louche? Loafers. Tailoring? Even then, loafers can finish off a Savile Row look with a cool, modern edge.
The Different Styles Of Men’s Loafers
Loafers have a long and storied heritage in menswear, and all the main styles have their own history.
Classic Loafer
First, there’s the classic penny loafer. Despite being a symbol of Ivy League fashion, it actually originated in Norway before later being reinvented by American firm G.H. Bass & Co. The style gets its name from the sit on the front of each shoe, which doubles up as a place to store a penny.
Tassel Loafer
Then there’s the tassel loafer. The story goes that this silhouette was born in the 1950s, when Oscar-winning actor Paul Lukas asked American shoemakers Alden to recreate a pair of Oxfords he found in Europe that had little tassels at the ends of the laces. The result was an instant classic, and many competitors went on to release their own versions of this much-loved style soon after.
Horsebit Loafer
There’s no doubt that the horse it loafer is the go-to dress shoe within the realm of loafers. As its name suggests, the horsebit takes its influence from equestrian style – and we have Gucci to thank for its existence.
Slipper Loafer
And don’t forget the slipper. This style of loafer is characterised by its leather sole, slight heel and velvet or suede uppers. It works just as well as an alternative to the more traditional dress shoe as it does for smartening up a casual outfit.
When you’re ready to add a pair of shoes to your collection (now, man, now), these are the best loafers for men to slide into.
Best Men’s Loafer Brands
To look like the most stylish guy in the room, check out these top brands for men’s loafers and you’ll never reach for another pair of shoes again.
Gucci
Gucci is a turn-to choice when you want to show off, but if we’re talking about loafers, it’s not just about stunting. The Italian label played an integral part in the enduring loafer styles we still wear today.
Gucci continues to refine the traditional silhouette even today, with styles like the fringed leather loafer, inspired by the punk movement of the 1970s and 1980s, and its distinctive horsebit design with an embroidered bee symbol.
Granted, they’re not the cheapest on the market, but for the extra investment, you can expect luxury touches like a lamb fur or quilted satin lining.
Brooks Brothers
Brooks Brothers is America’s oldest clothing retailer, with a heritage dating back almost 200 years. The brand offers a discerning range of traditional men’s loafers, and the quality is almost second to none.
Sitting at the slightly more accessible end of the luxury market, Brooks Brothers’ penny and tassel designs are crafted from premium materials like supple cordovan leather, pure French calfskin and kudu antelope suede. All of this makes Brooks an excellent choice if looking for a loafer to finish a suit.
G.H. Bass & Co.
This American heritage company goes back to the 19th century and balances its traditional roots with modern tastes. G.H. Bass is worth a browse if you’re looking for something preppy with the history to back it up.
Look out for the classic Weejun loafers, a silhouette that can be traced to the brand’s early years. You can find it in traditional colours and finishes, but you’ll also see it styled with more modern finishes.
Reiss
Reiss has well and truly cornered the premium end of the British high street, and its choice of loafers match its wider smart-contemporary vibe.
The retailer stays true to tradition while injecting seasonal touches, and its collection offers an array of more casual options for when you want to dress down.
Keep an eye out for butter smooth suede styles that pair excellently with cropped trousers. It’s a summer uniform for smarter dress codes.
Charles Tyrwhitt
A traditional British brand brimming with charm and elegance, Charles Tyrwhitt’s loafers are, as you’d expect from a Jermyn Street powerhouse, built to last.
The retailer’s collection consists of both leather and suede loafers in a refined choice of brown and black shades that are perfect additions to your work-week wardrobe.
If tassel loafers are your thing – this brand is particularly gifted on this front. These debonair styles are ideal for the man who appreciates good quality, craftsmanship and a little extra attention.
John Lobb
One of Northampton’s finest, John Lobb offers a handsome collection of loafers for men, with shoemaking expertise that stretches back almost 170 years. As such, expect finer touches such as hand-stitching, lightweight finishes and expertly cut leather.
The collection is rooted in traditional styles from the 1950s, but styles are refined with a contemporary edge, fitting for any modern man’s wardrobe. Prices range from £900 to £1,200 – with the odd £7,000-odd anomaly for when you’re feeling extra spendy.
Aldo
For the man who can’t make decisions, Canadian retailer Aldo offers a wide range of loafers at reasonable prices, meaning you can afford to get a few pairs.
With some Italian influence thrown in, effortless suede numbers sit alongside standout brights and classic staples, so your every possible need is catered for at a high street budget.
Joseph Cheaney and Sons
Another brand from the home of British shoemaking, Northamptonshire-based Cheaney and Sons is where to go if you’re in the market for some serious, go-the-distance loafers.
The award-winning, heritage firm offers a polished range of hand-crafted loafers that are made in England – and have been since 1886.
It’s the quality that puts Cheaney’s loafers head and foot above the competition. For our money, its penny loafers are near-perfect expressions of the style.
Marks & Spencer
Marks and Spencer’s is the old high street failsafe that never lets us down, especially when it comes to menswear staples that have been around for generations.
While the chain’s loafers are all as reasonably priced as you’d expect, bear in mind that most are also more on the casual side, with a wide offering of dressed-down suede options in particular.
Alden
Founded in 1884 by Charles H Alden, the eponymous firm is rumoured to be the inventor of the tassel loafer. Today, the New England shoemaker can be found in concessions around the world, although it stays close to its traditional preppy roots.
Each style is cut from the best quality leather, including a full leather lining, and is built for comfort and longevity. Check out its range for fellow all-American staple J. Crew for a more contemporary take on the classic loafer.
Dr. Martens
To give this traditional dressed-up style of shoe a bit of attitude, try a brand with some form when it comes to stylish sub-cultures.
Dr Martens’ take on loafers is as chunky as they come, but don’t go thinking that the dedication to quality is any less than a Northampton stalwart.
As well as that famed mirror-like finish, you get Goodyear welting – a guarantee of hard-wearing construction – as well as the all important air-cushioned sole.
Ted Baker
As it does with all its menswear, Ted Baker’s loafers are about traditional shapes, fine materials and a few little touches that keep things contemporary.
We’re particularly fond of the British dandy brand’s sleek suede loafers, which are available in an array of neutral shades to bookend just about any look. And best of all, don’t expect to pay much more than £100.
