How to style: The loafer

The modern loafer, as we know it today, began to gain popularity in the 1930s as a casual shoe characterized by its slip-on design and often made of leather or suede. It is said that the first modern penny loafer was made by shoemaker Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger in Norway. The loafer, named "Aurlandskoen" after the place where it was made, Aurland in Norway, is claimed to have origins in the moccasins worn by the Native American Iroquois people. When discussing the origin of the loafer, people often refer to Raymond Lewis Wildsmith's shoe, designed for King George VI in 1926 as a casual indoor shoe, later called "The Wildsmith Loafer."

During the 50s and 60s, the use of the loafer spread and became especially popular at Ivy League universities in the United States. Today, there are many different variations of the loafer, such as penny loafers and tassel loafers.

In our opinion, the loafer is the perfect shoe choice in spring and summer for those of you who are looking for a timeless classic. Below, our stylist combine a pair of light suede loafers in two different ways, accompanied by Italian settings for the perfect vacation vibe.

Poolside luxury

In this combination, we put an imminent focus on the colour black, where the loafers are allowed to stand out and set the style level for the otherwise subdued and relaxed outfit. Black sunglasses, black t-shirt, black linen shorts are combined with a green overshirt where we let the light suede loafers contrast with the dark. The Italian-made overshirt has a herringbone structure that provides an extra textured style detail, a perfect long-sleeved choice to throw on over the summer look when the sun's perhaps aren’t as strong as desired.

Bohemian simplicity

Let’s move towards a colour combination based on the soft, earthy colours of brown, beige and white. The wide trousers allow the loafers' neat construction to seamlessly blend in. The knitted shirt is sparsely crocheted in a handmade pattern, making it a comfortable, cooling and unique garment to wear throughout the summer months. Together with the light chinos, the combination gives a light and summery feeling.