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What are loafers? Often described as a \u201cknow it when you see it\u201d style,<\/span> women’s loafers<\/span><\/a><\/span> and <\/span>men\u2019s loafers<\/span> <\/a><\/span>seem to come in endless variations that bleed into other categories of footwear like <\/span>heels<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>slippers<\/span><\/a><\/span>,<\/span> and<\/span> mules<\/span><\/a><\/span>. As such, incorporating this must-have <\/span>casual shoe<\/span> style into your wardrobe can be a bit tricky\u2014in other words, this isn\u2019t just a \u201cif the shoe fits, wear it\u201d situation.<\/span><\/p>\n In their simplest form, loafers are slip-on dress shoes, usually made from leather or suede, that do not feature laces or fastenings. At their most complex, loafers are laden with tassels, rubber grip accents, and all kinds of bells and whistles.<\/span><\/p>\n This guide is here to help you understand everything there is to know about loafers: what they are, where they came from, tips <\/span>on how to style loafers, <\/span>and 6 different types of loafers to boot.<\/span><\/p>\n Without further ado, let\u2019s step to the world of the loafer shoe style.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n The history of loafers is a story all too well-known in the world of fashion\u2014that of a designer spotting a bit of working class garb or apparel and making a pricier version for the world to consume. The loafer<\/span> dress shoe<\/span> was actually inspired by leather slip-ons worn by fishermen in Norway who needed a comfortable, functional staple that allowed them to scrabble across docks and boat decks in pursuit of salmon. 1<\/span><\/p>\n The loafer was born when Norwegian shoemaker Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger took his cue from this humble style and combined it with the Iroquois moccasin designs he so admired from North America. By the 1920s, patents had been filed and the <\/span>boat <\/span>shoe<\/span> was exploding in popularity.<\/span><\/p>\n Since then, the<\/span> original<\/span> loafer <\/span>boat shoe<\/span> has given birth to all kinds of unique styles, from the ultra sophisticated to the downright ruthlessly practical. The many subtypes are part of the reason why loafers are so well-loved by some crowds and never worn by others; one man\u2019s bourgeois box-toed shoe is another man\u2019s treasure, so to speak.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Today, the loafer is defined as a slip-on shoe, typically made of leather or suede, that does not have laces, velcro, or fastenings necessary to hold the foot in place. While they typically have a low heel and a pared-down design, some loafers are defined by additional pieces of material, typically on the toe. Think: tassels, saddle straps, or upper details.<\/span><\/p>\n To counteract any confusion, and help you pick out a pair that will set you apart in a good way, we\u2019ve put together a little guide to the most common types of loafers. From casual shoe styles to more formal footwear, here are some of the most popular loafer looks. <\/span><\/p>\n Despite the moniker, these dress shoes aren\u2019t just for loafing around. While loafer style shoes allow you to simply slip into and go, they can be worn to all kinds of<\/span> events<\/span>, from fireside girl\u2019s nights to more <\/span>formal <\/span>occasions<\/span>.<\/span> Plus, they can dress almost any kind of outfit up or down.<\/span><\/p>\n Read on to find out more about the variety within this shoe type and help you achieve a better understanding of<\/span> how to style loafers<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Let\u2019s kick things off with a classic: the all-American penny loafer. What are penny loafers and how did they get their name?<\/span><\/p>\n Essentially, when young people began tucking a coin into the shoe\u2019s saddle that hugs the top of the foot, a star was born.3 Penny loafers can be found in a vast range of colors, but are most commonly spotted in black and brown. <\/span>A perfect example of this <\/span>style loafer <\/span>is our <\/span>Uptown Loafer<\/span><\/a><\/span>.<\/span> And while it can be worn in almost any situation, because it\u2019s such a 90s staple, it plays especially nicely with vintage jeans, white socks, and oversized vests.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n When it comes to rocking a fashionable shoe, there\u2019s nothing wrong with a flourish or two. Enter the tassel loafer, a shoe distinguished by the leather tassel perched just above the toes. This different style of <\/span>leather <\/span>loafer<\/span> is sophisticated and a little flashy and it suits outfits that demand to be noticed. Pull on your tassel loafers with dark wash denim jeans and an eye-catching sweater, or use them to elevate a casual dress.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n For the women who found themselves fascinated with the equestrian lifestyle, the horsebit loafer is a no-nonsense shoe that celebrates you.<\/span>4<\/span> This style is distinguished by the metal bar or link that sits on top of the shoe\u2019s tongue. It looks fantastic when playing off basic clothing items like cropped pants, patterned skirts, or blazers.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n With its rubber grommet sole running up the back of the heel, the driving loafer is a distinctive shoe said to have been invented for motorists looking for a little extra performance edge while ripping around in their jalopies.<\/span>5<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n These days, <\/span>this <\/span>driving shoe<\/span> is<\/span> more about fashion than function and can be an especially delightful addition to your outfit in unexpected colors like green, navy, or orange. If you\u2019re looking for a versatile driving loafer that effortlessly transitions from casual outings to more formal occasions, the Thompson Slip-On<\/a><\/span> is a smart, stylish choice.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n It\u2019s a heel. It\u2019s a loafer. No it\u2019s\u2026 a heeled loafer.<\/span><\/p>\n While the combination may seem strange at first\u2014a loafer sitting atop a few extra inches\u2014the fashion gods decreed that two of the most powerful women\u2019s shoe styles needed to merge. With the authority commanded by the classic style and the confidence stemming from a little additional height, these trending shoes should be worn on the finest of <\/span>formal <\/span>occasions.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n There is something regal about loafers made entirely of velvet. The daintiness of a streamlined upper combined with the matte black, blue, or even red cushy fabric makes the bold statement you\u2019ve been wanting to make. You\u2019ll love how chic velvet loafers look with formal styles like long skirts and dresses.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you\u2019re drawn to minimalist<\/span> footwear,<\/span> the <\/span>Venetian loafer<\/span> may be your perfect fit. This refined<\/span> loafer shoe<\/span> skips embellishments like tassels or <\/span>penny<\/span> slots and instead embraces a clean, unbroken vamp for a smooth silhouette. With roots in Italian<\/span> style<\/span>, Venetian loafers are effortlessly chic and ideal for anyone who prefers a streamlined look.<\/span><\/p>\n Their slip-on simplicity and <\/span>rounded toe <\/span>make them incredibly easy to wear with <\/span>tailored trousers, denim jeans<\/span>, or even <\/span>casual wear<\/span>. For both <\/span>men\u2019s<\/span> and <\/span>women\u2019s loafers,<\/span> they work beautifully in suede or leather, and are especially polished when done in polished finishes. Whether you’re dressing for dinner or adding sophistication to your <\/span>casual shoes <\/span>lineup, this <\/span>style<\/span> delivers understated elegance. If you\u2019re looking to add a <\/span>Venetian Loafer<\/span> to your closet, the <\/span>Willa 2.0 Slip-On Flat<\/span><\/a><\/span> is a sleek and minimal shoe style that\u2019s perfect for any occasion.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n With so many loafer styles, colors, and materials, it can be tricky to know which exact loafers are right for you. Before slipping into a new shoe commitment, check out our three indispensable tips for choosing the perfect pair, based on your body type and personal style.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n You likely know how skirts and shirts can accentuate your body\u2019s features. However, many people don\u2019t realize that learning to dress for your unique shape is a head-to-toe endeavor\u2014which means different types of shoes play a role too.<\/span><\/p>\n Emphasize your curves by choosing a shoe with a chunky profile. We\u2019re talking loafers with platform soles, thick rubber lugs, tassels, and even wide shoelaces for a little extra oomph. Or, extend the lines of long, thin legs by stepping into shoes with streamlined profiles, like driving or slipper loafers.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you know you need a reliable pair of <\/span>shoes for the office<\/span><\/a><\/span> and only for the office, keep things simple with a shoe that will match your formal or business casual attire. What exactly this looks like depends on your corporate culture, but likely means simple, low-heeled styles in black, brown, or navy blue. Both the Cleo Loafer<\/a><\/span> and the Caitlin Loafer<\/a><\/span>\u00a0 are refined, work-ready styles that strike the perfect balance between professionalism and polished everyday elegance.<\/span><\/p>\n On the other hand, if you\u2019re looking for an on-trend style that turns heads as you strut down the sidewalk, why not be bold with a thicker sole, bright colors like yellow and blue, or an eye-catching material like patent leather? As always, if you\u2019re looking for a versatile do-it-all shoe, find something that makes you feel cute while ensuring it still meets the tone of your workplace.<\/span> A<\/span> leather loafer<\/span> or <\/span>suede loafer<\/span> style are both great options if you want to take your shoes from the office to happy hour without missing a beat!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Some tall loafer wearers may elect to stay away from platforms or heeled styles, in interest of not underscoring their height. On the other hand, petite wearers may look for a shoe with a little extra padding under the heel in order to add some extra inches.<\/span><\/p>\n While fashion norms have long mandated certain aspects of women\u2019s dress codes (especially as it pertains to height), it\u2019s important to note that these so-called rules aren\u2019t rules at all. Don\u2019t forget that style is a personal preference and that the best shoes for you are the ones that make you feel like yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n A timeless form that changed footwear forever, the perfect loafer is an excellent addition to your closet for its versatility and classic origins. But some of the most comfortable loafers can also offer more support and protection than other <\/span>slip-on shoes for women<\/span><\/a><\/span>, making it a go-to option when you\u2019re looking for extra comfort.<\/span><\/p>\n With its roots in functional Iroquois and Norwegian styles, loafers were built to be worn and worn out. And while they can be gussied up with tassels, metal accents, or fine fabrics, the soul of a loafer is its durable upper and thick sole, which can stand up to the demands of your day.<\/span><\/p>\n At<\/span> Vionic<\/span><\/a><\/span>, when it comes to comfort and style, we go a step further. Our loafers are constructed with built-in Vio Motion technology<\/a><\/span> and orthotics to provide effortless support. Our designers make these styles from high-quality leather and suede, for a lightweight fit that is easy on the eyes and easy to slip into.<\/span><\/p>\n Step into comfort; step into Vionic.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\nLoafers: A Brief History<\/b><\/h2>\n
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What is a Loafer Shoe?<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Loafers: The 6 Must-Know Styles<\/b><\/h2>\n
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#1 The All-Purpose Penny Loafer<\/b><\/h3>\n
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#2 The Tasteful Tassel Loafer<\/b><\/h3>\n
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#3 The Classy Horsebit Loafer<\/b><\/h3>\n
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#4 The Cozy Driving Loafer<\/b><\/h3>\n
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#5 High Heel Loafers<\/b><\/h3>\n
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#6 Velvet Loafers<\/b><\/h3>\n
\u00a0<\/b>#7 The Sleek Venetian Loafer<\/b><\/h3>\n
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3 Tips on Choosing the Right Pair of Loafers<\/b><\/h2>\n
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Tip #1 Know Your Shape<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Tip #2 Choose Shoes for Work, Play, or a Little of Both<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Tip #3 Reach for the Heights of Fashion\u2014Even if it Means Breaking the Rules<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Enjoy Timeless Loafers in Many Styles from Vionic<\/b><\/h2>\n
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