Loafers have been a big trend for a while now. They’ve been around far back as the late 1800s and today are one of the most sought after looks. Loafers are no longer just for men, or need to be worn with slacks or formal pants, they are now worn with jeans, joggers, and dresses and worn so well by the opposite sex. This article will give you brief details on the History of the Loafer, my recommended picks, what Loafers to invest in and where to get your go to pair.

For the girls out there who haven’t embraced the trend yet – do it! The loafer is dressy and comfortable and adds an edge to your style than a classic ballerina pair.

The History of the Loafer 

The loafer was invented as a casual alternative to dress shoes back in the 1800s for British royalty. Since then, they were embraced by trendsetters such as Katherine Hepburn who embraced the “men’s clothing” trend and Audrey Hepburn for her chic Parisian styles.

My top picks for Loafers are:

1. The trendy Gucci Loafers – Gucci has taken over this trend and obliterated almost any competition the last two seasons. Everywhere  you look, every girl wears the Gucci Loafer.  What I like best about these loafers are that there is a large variety to suit any person’s taste. You have the embellished (the latest is the pearl finish), the fun and quirky colours, the slip-ons and the classics, the fur trimmed and high heeled, the metallics and the suedes.

Even trendier this season are the loafers with the GG Marmont buckle – can’t wait to get my self one of those.

Fashion Hacking Tip: the Gucci loafers have a high price point though. Cheaper options are the more classic looking ones with less embellishments that range from $695+, the canvas based shoes will be your cheapest bet. The heeled ones and the embellished ones can go as high $1,500 USD. Check some out here on their online store at Gucci.com My secret tip though is to go to Gucci Outlet stores, you can find some in Chicago and Palm Springs (if you are lucky enough to be near by). Their out of season, but still classic loafers are being sold as low as $250 USD. Ka-ching.

2. The Tres Classique Hermes Loafer – Hermes has come out with a very classic and permanent take on the loafer. It has your classic Collier De Chien and Kelly buckles. Unfortunately the price points are high at $800 and above.

3. The Chanel Moccasins –  While not technically a loafer, this shoe has a more feminine vibe to it , with the classic little double C. Price point is $800 USD

Men – don’t feel left out! The loafer was invented by you for you. Gucci, Hermes, Ferragamo etc. all have excellent loafers for you at the same price points!

Here are some “star-crossed loafers” 🙂 – a recent photo shoot me and my partner participated in:

I have paired my versatile blue gucci loafers with a simple pair of jeans and a t shirt for a game day. Shout out to the Toronto Maple leafs!

The High Close: Loafers are a worthy investment because of their versatility and long lasting style. They will add an edge to any outfit and the shoe will never go out of style, plus they are comfortable! Go and get yourself a pair!