The loafer is one of those shoes that never goes out of style. As comfortable as a slipper but smart enough for a jacket, you slip it on without lacing anything up: the name says it all, since a loafer is someone who takes it easy. Under the same name, though, sit models that are very different from one another. Here they are one by one, with a few tips on choosing, for men and women.
The penny loafer
The classic of classics: the one with the leather strap across the vamp and a small slot in the middle. The name comes from 1950s America, when students would slip a penny coin into it. Today it is the most versatile of them all: men wear it from the office to the weekend, while for women it is a true go-to with jeans and trousers. The original is the Sebago Classic Dan, in production for decades. You will find plenty of penny loafers among our men's loafers and women's loafers.
The tassel loafer
Instead of the coin, two leather tassels on the front. It also appeared in 1950s America and it is the dressiest of the family: it works with a suit, but it also takes the edge off a blazer and jeans. For men it is a staple of Sebago and Pawelk's, who makes handwoven leather versions; for women the tassels become a playful detail, often paired with a fringe.
The horsebit loafer
The horsebit is the small metal snaffle, often gold-toned, that runs across the vamp. Gucci made it famous in the 1950s with its horse-bit hardware, and it has meant chic elegance ever since. It is mainly a women's style: you will find it in many versions among our women's loafers, from smooth leather to prints.
The boat shoe
Recognisable by the stitching all around and the leather lace, it was born in the 1930s to stop sailors slipping on deck. Sebago and Copenhagen are its historic interpreters: the summer shoe par excellence, to be worn strictly without socks.
The driving loafer
The one with rubber pebbles on the sole that run up the heel. It was designed for driving (the pebbles grip the pedals) and it is the lightest and most casual of the lot, perfect around town and for travelling.
The fringed loafer
The fringed tongue across the front is a timeless classic, especially for women and in a flat summer version. Light and airy, it works with shorts and dresses: you will find it among our women's loafers, from the artisan styles by Luca Grossi to our own Sangiorgio line.
And if you love craftsmanship, take a look at the hand-woven leather loafers by Pons Quintana too.
How to choose and style them
Men: with a suit or jacket go for penny or tassel styles in smooth leather; for downtime, suede, driving loafers and boat shoes, sockless in summer. See all our men's loafers.
Women: the flat style is supremely comfortable with jeans and trousers; the horsebit instantly lifts a look; fringes and tassels are perfect for summer. See all our women's loafers.
Loafers fit true to size: go for your usual size. If in doubt, message us in the chat and we will help you out.
Find your loafers at Sangiorgio
We have been a shoe shop since 1947 and loafers are one of our specialities. Every pair is 100% original, with fast shipping and exchange or return within 30 days. Discover our men's loafers and women's loafers collections.
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