First of all, let's talk about what a loafer is and what it is not, and then let's explain whether it is a formal or a casual.
What Exactly are Loafers?
Loafers are slip-on shoes with an ankle and a and round toe. Loafers are preppy, minimalist, and fashionable. Loafers come in a variety of materials and can be worn for both formal and casual occasions. Loafers made of leather can be worn as a good pair of dress shoes, while those made of fabric can be worn for smart casual wear. Loafers are versatile, comfortable, and simple to put on and take off.
Loafers are said to make you look taller because of their low-rise profile, which lengthens your legs. Many men are perplexed about where dress loafers fall on the formal to casual spectrum. The answer is nearly anywhere. As a result, they should be in every man's wardrobe. Dress loafers are classified into four types, each with a different level of formality. Today, I'll go over when to wear each type and what to wear with it.
What Exactly are Dress Loafers?
- Loafers were originally designed as casual shoes. They've evolved into classic formal wear over the years, but the style still reflects their casual origins.
- Slip On and Off: Loafers are easy to put on and take off, making them ideal for the busy man who values punctuality.
- Instead of buckles and laces, each type of dress loafer has its own distinctive adornment. We'll get there in a second.
- Various Materials: Dress loafers are available in suede, leather, and a variety of colours.
- Tassel Loafers are one of the four types of dress loafers.
We'll start at the low key end. The least formal dress loafers are these.
Tassel loafers have a rounded toe outlined by a reverse seam and are embellished with leather tassels on the top vamp. They are typically made of cordovan leather. Tasseled loafers, which were originally designed as wholecut shoes in the 1950s, are versatile, hardwearing, and timeless classics.
Tassel loafers are ideal for wearing with chinos and a blazer. They have the same formality as a navy blazer with gray trousers in black or oxblood.
- Loafers from Belgium
Belgian loafers are the more formal cousins of tassel loafers. The small bow on the front distinguishes them. The soft sole of these elegant loafers was originally designed as indoor slippers.
Belgian loafers have flawless stitching. This is due to the fact that they are made using the exacting 'turned' method sewing inside out and then turning right side out when finished. Belgian loafers are appropriate for wearing with chinos, flannel pants, and corduroys.
- Penny Loafers
Penny loafers, the most versatile type, are as formal as Belgian loafers but more closely linked to moccasins than slippers. They have a leather strip across the seat with a diamond cut out.
- Gucci Loafers or Horsebit
The most formal are Gucci loafers. The snaffle, or metal bar, in the vamp is what distinguishes a Gucci loafer. It was created in 1963 by the great Italian designer Aldo Gucci to resemble a horse's bit.
The American trend of formal loafers with suits did not catch on in the rest of the world until the arrival of Gucci loafers. Many other brands now make bit loafers, but you're still likely to hear them all referred to as 'Gucci'.
Loafers were originally casual shoes, but as more variations and designs emerged, as well as the use of patent leather, they evolved into a more formal style that can be started to wear with tailored suits and tuxedos. Loafers are classic and nice, and brands can make a variety of small changes to make them feel especially current.
