Photo par almyki via Flickr (CC BY 2.0)The loafer has left the shelf of sensible shoes to become one of the most versatile pieces in a woman’s wardrobe. It dresses up jeans, softens a suit, structures a fluid dress. Its strength: it sits between smart and casual, which lets it finish off almost any outfit. What is left is knowing what to pair it with, and how to handle the famous sock question.
With jeans
The simplest and most effective pairing. Straight or mom jeans rolled at the ankle show the loafer and lengthen the leg. The cuff is the key: it frees the ankle and stops the hem swallowing the shoe. With raw dark jeans and a fine jumper, the loafer takes on an assumed preppy edge.
For long jeans left uncuffed, pick a length that grazes the top of the foot without pooling. A hem too long over a loafer shortens the silhouette.
With a skirt
A midi pleated or straight skirt with loafers strikes the balance between feminine and academic. The midi length (below the knee, mid-calf) works better than the mini, which calls for a heel or a trainer instead. Fine knee-high socks slipped into the loafer warm up winter and add a retro touch.
With a dress
Over a fluid dress or a shirt dress, the loafer breaks the prim look that ballet flats would give and brings a welcome masculine note. A short dress with loafers and fine socks creates a very current contrast. A long dress works better with a slightly chunky loafer, so it does not vanish under the fabric.
With a suit or tailored trousers
This is where the loafer shines. A trouser suit with flat loafers replaces the court shoe without losing any style, while gaining comfort. The trouser ideally stops at the ankle or rolls up slightly. A bit loafer (the metal detail across the top) adds a dressed touch that supports the suit.
In a chunky version
The chunky or platform loafer changes the mood of the outfit: more fashion-led, more assertive. It rebalances silhouettes by adding weight at the bottom, handy with wide trousers or a loose dress. Keep it for casual outfits, as it weighs down a classic suit.
The sock question
The loafer is worn bare, with no-show socks, or with assumed socks. Three options, three results:
- Bare or no-show socks: the summery, minimal option, clean leg
- Visible fine socks: retro, preppy look, perfect in mid-season
- Knee-high or knit socks: winter warmth and a style point, especially with a skirt
One rule only if you show the socks: own them as a choice. A plain sock that echoes a colour in the outfit, or on the contrary a sharp contrast, looks intended. It is the white sports sock half hanging out that gives away the accident, not the visible sock itself.