4 Different Loafer Styles for Women

Aug 03 , 2021

Jhuti

Tags - Loafers for Women

During warmer weather months, I’m sure you can agree the last thing you want to do is faff around with chunky shoes with laces that don’t always look great with our outfits.

We all want a pair of shoes that are not only comfortable and stylish, but you can quickly slip on and go about your day.

That’s right… We’re talking loafers!

Loafers originate from Britain, during the mid 1800s where the loafer was designed as a casual country house shoe for the Royal Family.

It wasn’t until 1930, where Norwegian dairy farmers were found wearing this style in the loafing area (where cows are milked), which caught New Hampshire’s Spaulding Leather company’s attention and they marketed the shoes as loafers - how we know them today.

Over the years, there have been many different styles to compliment various outfits for various occasions.

Let's take a look at 4 loafer styles in more detail.

1. Penny

Penny loafers feature a signature leather strap with a small slit that’s perfect to store a couple of pennies - hence the name, penny loafer!

How you choose to wear these ultimately depends on your own personal style, however they are more suited to smart casual wear, rather than business attire.

Whether you prefer wearing skirts or jeans, a pair of penny loafers will finish your outfit off effortlessly; as long as your ankle is bare so your loafers can take the spotlight.

For a classic look, try pairing this style of loafers with a button down shirt and a mini skirt or tailored shorts.

All in all, penny loafers are versatile and can be worn all year round when finished with the right outfit - in the summer try lighter shades.

2. Tassel

If you’re looking for a stylish alternative to penny loafers, then look no further than the tassel loafers.

Given away by its name, these loafers have decorative laces hanging from the vamp and can be available in both leather and suede materials.

To style, slim fitted jeans will always look good and regarding tops, if you choose to wear a shirt for a more formal setting or a knitted top for something more casual - a pair of tassel loafers will easily polish off any outfit.

For the office, try pairing tassel loafers with black suit trousers or a pencil skirt which will exude both elegance and sophistication.

3. Kiltie

The 50’s saw the kilted golf shoes and penny loafers join together, creating the kiltie loafer.

Similar to tassel loafers, kilties too have a decorative feature.

But this time, it’s a fringed panel that covers the instep; sometimes referred to as an extended tongue and is designed to protect the instep from mud and dirt.

Luckily, these shoes look best in lots of situations, from casual to business casual, a pair of kiltie loafers are a stylish anchor to any outfit.

4. Horsebit

Horsebit loafers, sometimes called Gucci loafers have been a fashion staple for a few decades - and they’re not going away anytime soon.

As Gucci understood the popularity of loafers during the 50s, they created the horsebit loafer which was formal enough to wear with suits but more comfortable and casual than other black shoes available at the time.

And so, they’re a timeless pair that bridges the gap between smart and casual - they can be worn with casual denim, party dresses or give any outfit for that matter a more tailored feel.

Put Your Best Foot Forward

Loafers are a classic timepiece and a must have for every woman’s wardrobe.

Whether you’re looking for an office feel or a more relaxed vibe, there’s a style of loafers suitable for you.

Generally speaking, how you wear them will depend on your own personal style and you should always make sure you feel comfortable.

If there’s one thing I can advise though, is to avoid wearing socks at all costs and if you must wear some, opt for the invisible kind that won’t be seen!

Please get in touch for more information.

In the meantime, check our full range of smart casual shoes for women here.