How to wear loafers

Whether you opt for a classic design or something more contemporary, loafers are a great look all year round and suitable for both formal and informal occasions. With so many options of style and colour, it can be difficult to know how to wear and style your loafers. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about loafers – from understanding what they are to the best ways to style them.

What are loafers?

Loafers are a type of slip-on shoe without laces or fastenings, making them easy to wear and style. Originating from Native American moccasin shoes, loafers have evolved into various types and styles, often featuring a low heel with a leather, suede, or fabric upper. Known for their sleek and minimalist appearance, loafers offer a range of styles that combine simplicity with sophistication. While some loafers stick to a plain design, others incorporate details such as tassels, penny slots, or metal horse-bit embellishments.

Though loafers were initially part of men’s fashion, they are now widely worn by all genders, with styles that range from casual to business appropriate. No matter the design, loafers offer a classic look that works with a range of outfits and settings.

How to style loafers?

As mentioned above, loafers are a versatile type of footwear meaning you can style them with several looks. For example, if you have a work meeting or event, you can wear them with tailored trousers. Loafers naturally complement the clean, fitted look of tailored trousers, and opting for cropped or ankle-length styles allows the shoe to stand out without overshadowing the outfit. A simple tucked-in blouse or shirt can help to complete the polished, professional look.

Alternatively, loafers work well as footwear for more casual styles. You could pair them with jeans, creating more of a laid-back, informal aesthetic. To keep it casual, pop on a simple t-shirt and cosy cardigan or jumper. Or try a button-down shirt and relaxed blazer combination to create an outfit ideal for going out for drinks or dinner with friends.

Loafers also work wonderfully with dresses and skirts, lending structure to softer, flowing fabrics. Pairing loafers with a midi skirt or dress creates a balanced, sophisticated look that feels effortlessly stylish. For a more casual, summery vibe, you can also wear short dresses with loafers. This is a great way to showcase your personal style while keeping things light and breezy, especially in warmer weather.

In the warmer months, loafers can also be styled with shorts for a preppy, chic look. Men might choose to wear loafers with chino shorts and a casual shirt for a smart-casual outfit, perfect for pub lunches or garden parties. Women can achieve a similarly stylish look by pairing loafers with high-waisted shorts and a tucked-in blouse. Shorts and loafers may seem like an unusual combination, but they work surprisingly well, especially in a neutral palette that highlights the shoe’s classic style.

When it gets to winter, loafers can still be an elegant choice. You can pair loafers with tailored trousers or thick tights and layer with a coat, jumper, scarf and gloves for a cosy outfit. Loafers in darker shades, such as black or deep brown, are great choices for colder months, matching well with the season's colour palette.

Can you wear socks with loafers?

Yes, you can. Wearing socks with loafers is often a more comfortable option than without, especially in the colder months. However, there may be a few things to consider such as the occasion and the rest of your outfit when deciding what type of sock to wear or whether to go sockless.

For a classic, understated look, many people do prefer to wear loafers without socks, especially in warmer weather or with more casual outfits. However, if you prefer the appearance of going sockless but want added comfort and protection for your feet, no-show socks can be a great alternative, providing a comfortable barrier without being visible.

Alternatively, choosing socks that stand out can allow you to create a more unique and eye-catching look. Solid-coloured socks in brighter shades can be a great choice for this – you could even coordinate them with the colour of your tie, shirt or handkerchief. For a bolder look, patterned socks can help to add a touch of your own personality to the overall outfit.

In professional settings, it’s generally best to stick to neutral or dark-coloured dress socks, which complement trousers and create a cohesive, polished look. This style is perfect for offices, meetings, or any formal occasions where you want to appear sharp and professional without drawing too much attention to your feet.

Whether you choose to go sockless for a relaxed, contemporary look or experiment with socks for added style and comfort, loafers make an excellent addition to any outfit. With a simple pair of loafers, you can build a variety of looks suited to your personal taste and the occasion.