It can sometimes be difficult for men to know what to wear. Although the casual look is becoming increasingly popular at almost any venue, no matter how hard you try, there are times when the sneaker just doesn’t do the job.
If you want to create a casual, laid-back, yet stylish look, it’s time to look at loafers.
What Is A Loafer?
The loafer was first offered to the public in 1930. It was thought of as a casual shoe, designed to be easily slipped on and off and usable with almost any outfit. In most cases there is a low heel, while the originals had rubber soles and leather or suede uppers.
Although it was first available in the 1930s, it wasn’t until the 1950s that it became a style statement. That’s when it was adopted by Ivy League students.
It’s interesting to note these loafers had a small slot on the top which was the perfect size to hold a coin, giving you money to make an emergency phone call. That’s why they were commonly referred to as penny loafers, a name that is still used today.
Today, there is a much wider selection of styles, materials, and colors. That’s what makes them a great option for any occasion. In fact, today’s loafers come in a huge array of styles, ensuring you can wear them to a business meeting and still create the right look.
Modern loafers are still made with soft suede and even calfskin and they are combined with fringes, double buckles and additional trimming.
There are a lot of eccentric styles available, although these may not be the best option when dressing for business.
How To Choose The Best Dress Loafer For Men
There are 4 factors worth considering to help you get the best possible dress loafers for men.
Color
Remember darker colors are generally better for a more professional look.
Style
This is where you allow your personality to shine through, since it’s the small details on a dress loafer that make a difference. For example, the Balmoral brushed cocoa loafers will look stunning at a formal event, but they will also be distinctive thanks to the gold-edged penny slot.
Material
Nothing says style, sophistication and even success better than a high-quality pair of loafers for men. If you’re heading to a business meeting and want to make the right impression, combine the Philippe Nappa Black loafer with your best suit.
They look fantastic and the quality of the leather is apparent, telling everyone you’re successful and mean business.
The Event
However, potentially the most important consideration is the event. When choosing a dress loafer you need to be confident that it will stand out for all the right reasons at an event.
For example, if you’re going to a prestigious event, such as a music award or even an industry award party, you’ll want loafers that fit the occasion. A great choice is the Dalton Vintage black loafers. They offer a hint of retro which is currently a very popular style choice, and, at the same time, they can be paired effortlessly with your dress suit.
If you want to switch it up a little and make sure you stand out from the crowd, then choose a lighter suit and pair it with the Tangerine 7 brushed cocoa Belgian loafers. The color works perfectly with lighter suits, creating a stylish, noticeable, yet professional image.
Of course, even a dress loafer can be worn with jeans, allowing you to feel comfortable and look great when heading to work or going for after-work drinks. The simplicity and softness of the Balmoral brushed black loafers are the perfect example of this.
Summing it Up
There is a time to wear bright, bold and even eccentric shoes. However, that’s not when you’re conducting or attending important business meetings.
That’s when you need a high-quality dress loafer. Keep the approach simple and the color dark. You can still have a small amount of personalization in the buckles or other features.
All you have to do when choosing your dress loafer is remember what you will be wearing it for. That will make your decision simple.
