Men’s loafers
Men’s loafers or slip-ons are a relatively new type of footwear for men who know the importance of attractive attire. They quickly joined the galaxy of the most intriguing fashion trends, conquering runways and men’s hearts all across the globe. Men’s loafers, often referred to as men’s moccasins[D1] , are comfortable and multifunctional shoes for spring and summer. Typically made of real leather, they’re an idea for those who need both comfort and an original look, no half-measures accepted. If you draw sartorial inspirations from the stars and celebrities, slip-on loafers are your must-have for the coming spring-summer season. What colour variant will you choose today? Check out your options at Apia.pl!
What are the origins of moccasins and loafers?
The name “moccasins” used to denote the traditional footwear of Native Americans. In Europe, the first moccasins which earned cult status were designed and patented by Gianni Mostile in 1963. Interestingly, these luxury shoes used to be reserved for driving. Only in the late 1970s did the Americans fall for this shoe style as daily wear. The new craze was inspired by Diego Della Valle who presented moccasins as casual and super-comfortable Italian shoes representing top-of-the-line quality.
Today, men’s moccasins and slip-on loafers stand first and foremost for comfort. These original shoes are light, supple, and maintain a firm grip on the surface. Men’s loafers at Apia.pl are hand-stitched shoes on a flat or reinforced sole. Men’s slip-on shoes are universal footwear for spring and summer. Loafers are lightweight and not too thick. You can freely wear them on bare feet, although possibilities are far more diverse.
A great plus of slip-on shoes is their versatility, as they go with a myriad of formal and informal outfits. In the summer, they can top off a party look. On a colder day, they pair perfectly with a casual suit. You could say that men’s loafers have an air of mild elegance, ideal for daily wear and on more special occasions alike.
Types of men’s loafers
Since men’s slip-on shoes are mainly loafers, let’s make these luxury shoes our point of focus. What are the most popular loafers on the market?
Penny loafers
The simplest and the most popular design. Penny loafers have a characteristic strap with an opening where men used to carry the eponymous pennies. In the 1930s, a penny was exactly the cost of a quick phone call. Originally, penny loafers were donned only in informal ensembles. Today, these hand-stitched shoes with a textured surface can be easily pulled off with a suit.
Horsebit loafers
Instead of a detail with a small opening, this type of loafers has a metal snaffle attached to a leather strap. Horsebit loafers were introduced by Gucci, with the snaffle alluding to the origins of the brand.
Tassel loafers
These slip-ons pass for the most elegant type of men’s loafers. Their most conspicuous feature are the two decorative tassels attached to the vamp. In recent seasons, tassel loafers are back in style and complete more and more elegant fashion outfits.
Sailor loafers
A type of loafers inspired by the footwear donned by sailors. The most casual and the most universal models in the whole loafer family. A salient feature – the quarter sewn in the upper part of the shoe and an anti-slip sole.
Slipper loafers (lords)
When trying to flaunt their knowledge on the latest trends, people often use the terms “loafers” and “lords” interchangeably. It’s a common mistake. Men’s slipper loafers, of lords, are a distinctive type of men’s loafers that wrap the feet in a manner resembling traditional slippers. What are these original shoes exactly?
In recent seasons, slipper loafers have taken world’s runways by the storm. Covered with suede or velveteen, they’re ultra-soft and cut out at the sides. Slipper loafers are also referred to as “lords” because these hand-stitched shoes used to be lounge footwear of the upper-class men and women, often featuring a family crest. Today, slipper loafers reign on the runways and the streets in the global fashion capitals. Far more ornate than classic loafers, they often feature jewellery accents or lacing.
Men’s loafers at Apia.pl
Men’s loafers owe most of their fame to the stars of the 1980s such as Michael Jackson. If artful and elegant accessories feel at home in your wardrobe, men’s slip-ons from Apia.pl will become your new favourites. Our selection includes chiefly lightweight loafers, but men who prefer a sports style will be happy to find timeless sneakers as well. Hand-stitched shoes at Apia come only from the best Italian fashion houses.
Apia.pl offers footwear manufactured by brands such as Jo Ghost, Fabi, or Officine Creative. All designs are made of natural, top-quality leather, with painstaking care for the smallest details. Our selection of sneakers includes luxury shoes by Italian brands such as Camper and Alberto Guardiani. Fond of a classic and universal style? Choose slip-on shoes with no embellishments. They’re a perfect add-on to the daily-wear wardrobe of an elegant man. If you’re up for a quirky look with a tinge of nonchalance, choose avant-garde loafers with buckles or tassels or go for unorthodox, bold colours.
How to style men’s loafers – suggested outfits
Men’s loafers are slip-ons for warmer days, so they make for an essential purchase before the coming spring. Fashion trends from the 80s dictated to style black leather loafers with long cloth trousers or even white socks, but times have changed. For a few years now, men’s loafers have successfully topped off smart-casual looks.
Looking for daily wear inspirations? Men’s slip-ons pair perfectly with slim-fit jeans just below the ankle. Add a loose shirt for a look that will work at the office and an informal gathering with friends. Loafers are also a viable summer option. Their timeless sailor vibe will complement a brand polo shirt and on-trend shorts. In fact, men’s loafers are one of the few designs that team fantastically with shorts without assuming a sporty feel. They are an alternative to trainers or sandals which lets you keep a hint of classic elegance. Men’s loafers made of suede look good also with long or short chinos and a light linen shirt.
Want to make an impression at a big summer party? Loafers and a double-breasted suit in the English style will add up to the outfit of a modern man with a flair for fashion. Black men’s slip-ons go with almost any suit, while brown loafers work best with grey or navy blue.
Men’s loafers – to sock or not to sock?
The eternal question that haunts men on their hunt for fashion inspirations. Many sources say that you should always lose socks when wearing slip-on shoes such as loafers. In reality, however, nothing is set in stone. All depends on the entire ensemble and the desired level of formality. On summer days and informal events, brand loafers look great if you go sockless and expose the ankle.
On the other hand, socks are required clothing with a suit. They’re also recommended in spring and autumn, when wearing men’s loafers on bare feet is hardly a comfortable choice. If you can’t make up your mind, go for the golden mean – put on no-show socks which will stay hidden under the shoe.
