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Loafers

Loafers (or penny loafers) are low step-in shoes made out of leather. They have a broad flat heel and have a construction similar to moccasins as the sole and sides are made from one piece of leather and then stitched together on top. Loafers gained popularity in the mid 1930s and feature no shoelaces or buckles. Loafers are considered step-in and not slip-on shoes because they do have a heel and a collar which aids in the comfort of the Achilles tendon.

Loafers are considered to be dress shoes and can be worn by men and women. Men can sport them with or without socks as the sockless look has become a fashion trend. Loafers have become a popular look with schoolgirls who wear them as part of a school uniform. Many women wear penny loafers, which are loafers with a shiny penny that has been inserted in a slit on the upper of the shoe. The penny is supposed to be for good luck, but took off in the fashion world in the seventies and eighties as well. Loafers can be bought in several hues like:

• Brown
• Black
• Dark blue
• Tan

Loafers complement clothing items such as:

• Slacks
• Jeans
• Sport coats
• Skirts
• Suits
• Polo Shirts