You should be slipping on loafers this summer. Here’s why…
From Penny to Tassel, this surprisingly versatile shoe will be your summer style saviour. Here are some of the best
Words: Jonathan Wells
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During the hotter months, when all we really want to do is strip down to our shorts and lounge in the sun, dressing for formal occasions can be a drag. You’ll wince as you put on layer after layer, begrudgingly throw a tie around your neck and curse your ever-creased linen suit.
But when it comes to shoes, it’s a different matter entirely.
The loafer is the perfect formal summer shoe. Originally developed over 150 years ago for the royal family and landed gentry, these slip-on shoes are cast in leather, occasionally decorated and a key part of the mid-century “Ivy Look”. And you should own at least one pair.
We turned to British born footwear label and king of the loafer, Duke & Dexter, to learn just how versatile this style of shoe can be.
For a summer soiree, a plain black leather loafer is best
A black loafer is a perfectly acceptable alternative to an Oxford, or formal brogue. If you’re heading to a super smart event, a patent black option is the way to go, but a plain black leather will also do the job. They’ll keep you looking cool with a suit and, without any pesky laces to fiddle with, you can slip them off as soon as your feet get too hot.
Patent Black
£225
Bowler Black
£150
Pyramid Black
£185
For a cocktail dress code, there is no better option
Cocktail dress, a notoriously difficult dress code to follow, finds its salvation in the loafer. These shoes — simple, laceless canvases — offer endless possibilities for patterns, materials and trims. From a suede pair to an outlandish geometric pattern, you can get away with colour combinations and designs that other shoes just couldn’t pull off.
For a little added interest, throw on a tassel
Nothing says pomp and ceremony like a tassel — and it’s no different with loafers. As you likely won’t be wearing socks with your loafers during summer, and your chinos will be rolled to a modest, ankle-exposing length, you can afford to add a little bit of interest to what is usually a very minimalist shoe. And it doesn’t stop with tassels — check out this edgy skull option from Duke & Dexter.
For something work appropriate over summer, a penny loafer
If the penny hasn’t dropped by now, loafers are the perfect all-around shoe for summer. Casual and beach ready should you buy a less formal variant, there are other designs — such as the Penny Loafer — which are office ready and suited to any workplace. So if your boots or Derbys have been giving you grief this summer, slip on a pair of Pennies.
Want to summerify another of your accessories? These are the best fabric strap watches to stay cool this summer…
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