31/08/2026
The loafer is the single most hardworking shoe in any wardrobe. If you don’t have one in your rotation, consider this your official intervention. Pick one (or all):
The Classic Penny: Sleek, understated, timeless (think G.H. Bass Weejuns).
The Horsebit: Defined by metallic hardware across the vamp (the Gucci standard). Adds instant uptown polish to basic denim.
The Lug-Sole/Chunky: Heavy, architectural soles (Prada, Tod’s) that anchor lightweight skirts and add structural weight.
The Tassel: Pure 60s Mod energy. Sharp, slightly cerebral, and looks unmatched with cropped trousers.
Want to know how to style it? We got you.
The Sock Rule: Either go completely bare-ankled or lean in with a crisp, ribbed white cotton sock pulled up just below the calf.
High-Low Proportions: Pair heavy lug-sole loafers with delicate silk slip skirts to cut the sweetness. For sleek penny loafers, team with puddle-hem tailoring so just the leather toe peeks out as you walk.
The Off-Duty Formula: Straight-leg vintage Levi’s, an oversized trench coat, beat-up horsebit loafers, and unbrushed hair.
Who Gets It Right
Alexa Chung: The blueprint. Classic penny loafers paired with bare legs, A-line mini skirts, and trench coats.
Zoë Kravitz: Effortless 90s minimalism. Sleek black loafers, slouchy mid-rise trousers, and vintage tees.
Bella Hadid: Vintage collegiate cool. Tassel loafers styled with sheer knee-high stockings and pleated midi skirts.
Dakota Johnson: Gucci’s ultimate muse. Classic horsebit loafers styled with slouchy 70s-inflected tailoring, washed vintage denim, and effortless blazers.
Katie Holmes: The queen of Manhattan off-duty dressing. Broad-sole and chunky loafers paired with relaxed wide-leg trousers, cozy knitwear, and floor-sweeping outerwear.
If your leather doesn’t have a few scratches from running down King’s Road at 2 AM, you’re doing it wrong. Ditch the heels, keep the attitude.
