July 10, 2017 |
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Loafers are the heroes of summer footwear. They’re just about the only shoes that you can legitimately wear either with or without socks; with trousers or shorts; with summer suits; to work and to the pub.
This summer, there has never been more choice when it comes to men’s loafers. We’ve spotted everything from lace-up loafer/trainer hybrids to paisley print and even animal-print loafers, and – of course – the ubiquitous tassel loafer.
Read on to find out what to look for in your summer loafers, and how to style them for every occasion.
Tasselled loafers
A classic. Most men will already have a pair of tasselled loafers somewhere in the back of their wardrobe. But this year, designers have been playing around with styles a bit, and updating the tasselled look for the summer. These Paul Smith shoes are smart enough for the office, but the quirky sole keeps the look fresh.Wear with... dark-coloured chinos
Lace up loafers
The latest entry in the Loafer Hall of Fame – these KG lace ups are just about as casual as you can get, without just wearing trainers. They are pretty much the perfect holiday shoe, as they're comfy enough to wear out and about, but smart enough to wear to dinner in the evening. Buy them now and you'll still be wearing them in the autumn.Wear with... denim shorts and a t-shirt
Formal loafers
One part Hugh Hefner and one part Jared Leto – burgundy loafers are the breakout hit of the year's footwear trends. Simultaneously laid back and formal, they add a rock 'n roll vibe to a skinny-cut suit, making them the perfect choice for weddings, work dos and other 'dress up' occasions.Wear with... a suit
Woven loafers
More breathable than regular loafers, these woven leather shoes HAVE to be worn without socks. And this makes them one of the few pairs of shoes that actually look good with shorts. Woven leather is an elegant compromise between sandals and shoes, as they keep your feet cool in hot weather, while also sparing the world from the sight of your toes. These Topman shoes have a Riviera vibe and would look great with chino shorts and a short-sleeved shirt.Wear with... chino shorts
Suede loafers
Who doesn't want to own a pair of blue suede shoes? Suede loafers are rapidly gaining on leather loafers in terms of popularity, so it was only a matter of time before blue suede made its way back into the mainstream. Channel Elvis Presley with these rockabilly loafers, and brace yourself for a barrage of predictable jokes.Wear with... dark trousers or black skinny jeans
Quirky loafers
It's not easy to look unique in loafers, but this may be about to change. The latest runway collections saw designers such as Moschino, Valentino and Gucci playing around with new types of loafer – from logo-embellished to studded, fur-lined and even backless loafer mules. These House of Hounds mule loafers nod to the latest catwalk collections without being too OTT.Wear with... ankle grazers
