Loafers: an overview of popular brands
Loafers are comfortable shoes for men and women for every day. Let's take a look at the most popular brands, which offer quality and stylish loafers for all tastes.
Peculiarities
Loafers are shoes with a rounded toe. They have no clasps, but there is a bridge on the instep. It can be decorated with tassels or a buckle. The latter option is the prerogative of famous fashion houses, which were originally invented at Gucci.
The first loafers were made in the UK in the mid-20s of the last century. It was a personal order from King George VI. Initially, it was assumed that these would be home shoes that the king would be able to wear in his country residence.
It was then that a shoemaker named Raymond Wildsmith created low-heeled shoes that strongly resembled moccasins. The main difference was the presence of a firm sole, like boots. They did not have lacing or any other fasteners, so they could be easily removed and put on.
Over time, loafers fell in love with many British aristocrats, they preferred to be worn in a country house or outdoors. A few years later, loafers appeared in Norway, from where their popularity spread throughout the world.
Models
There are several types of branded men's loafers:
- Venetian (classic). Authentic loafers that came to us from Norway. They are called Venetian because of the similarity to the barque ship, which can only be found in this beautiful city. These are laconic leather slippers with nothing superfluous.
- Penny loafers. Shoes with a decorative leather strip that has a diamond-shaped cut. They got their name in the 50s, thanks to students from the Ivy League. They put 2 pennies in the slot, but why is not exactly known. There are two versions: to be able to make a call, even if there is no money in your pocket, or for luck during the exams.
- Belgian. The tidiest model that looks pretty sophisticated. For many years they have been sewn exclusively by the company of Henry Bendel. At the top, they are decorated with a tiny bow, which confuses some men with its elegance.
- With tassels. This model appeared after the Second World War. They were specially made to order by the actor Paul Lucas. Initially they were exclusively black and white, but over time, many other models have appeared. Classic tassel loafers are crafted from specially crafted horse leather so they are durable and showcase their wearer's special status.
- With a buckle. This model appeared with the light hand of the designers from Gucci. They argued that the classic suit can be worn not only with lace-up shoes, but also with loafers. To make them look more impressive, a buckle was added to them instead of tassels.
- Fringed. Another stylish model that goes well with a business suit. Because the fringes on loafers are similar to kilts, they are called “kiltie loafers” in English. This is the only type of loafer not recommended to be worn with socks.
Womens
Loafers are one example of how shoes from the classic men's wardrobe made it to the women's. The ladies borrowed the most attractive models from the gentlemen - with tassels, with a buckle, with a fringe. They practically do not differ from men, except that they look more elegant.
There are also purely female models - on a platform or a small stable heel, but the top of the shoes still remains unchanged. Such loafers combine convenience, comfort and elegance - these are the criteria that modern girls prefer.
Popular brands
Vitacci
Vitacci is an Italian brand that is popular all over the world. He specializes in sewing women's and men's shoes, bags and other leather accessories. The brand's stylish loafers boast excellent quality and wearability. They provide maximum comfort and at the same time look great with both business and casual wear.
Rabbit
Rabbit Loafers is a domestic company that specializes exclusively in sewing loafers. The brand itself describes its loafers as “expressive”. This is really so, because each pair has a bright, memorable design. There are classic elegant casual, youth models for men and women.
Tesoro
The European brand Tesoro specializes in sewing shoes for fashionable and stylish men. Loafers of this brand can boast of high quality, comfortable wear and a wide range of models for every taste.
Thanks to a large international team of craftsmen from Italy, Japan and Portugal, shoes are also obtained as diverse as possible - from classic conservative to casual and informal.
Shoiberg
The brand specializes in sewing comfortable and high-quality footwear from natural materials. When sewing, the specificity of a person's natural movement is taken into account. Loafers of this nonsense turn out to be light, practical and have an original design. Shoes will serve you for a long time, delighting you with high quality and impeccable style.
Gucci
Gucci loafers are primarily known for being the first buckle loafers. It was they who began to be taken seriously not only as footwear for home and leisure, but also as shoes that deserve to be combined with a business suit.
Gucci Gucci created black loafers, adorned with an unusual accessory - a gilded bit, which was part of the horse's bridle. Before that, they were made in different colors, because they were considered, because they were considered part of the casual style.
The great designer got his way, and Gucci loafers soon began to be worn by the most influential businessmen, entrepreneurs and politicians. Over time, Gucci loafers appeared in women's wardrobe, and their popularity continues to this day.
Ecco
Danish brand that is known all over the world. Specializes in sewing light and comfortable shoes, which are very comfortable to walk in. Today it is the only large company that independently deals with all stages of production - from raising cows to supplying shoes to store shelves.
If earlier the design of ECCO shoes could hardly be called ultra-fashionable, today it pleases its fans with stylish modern models that delight with their unsurpassed quality.
Salamander
Another world famous brand that produces not only shoes, but also high-quality care products. The company produces high-quality German footwear, which is especially loved and bought in Europe. Its democratic design, strength and durability make it a great option for everyday wear.
Grand style
For more than 10 years, the Grand Style brand has specialized in sewing high-quality shoes with stylish and original designs. When sewing, the latest fashion trends are taken into account, new collections are constantly being released that can boast of their uniqueness.
When sewing, only natural materials are used, and any of the presented pairs of shoes can boast of reliability and comfort in combination with an ultra-fashionable design.
Timberland
Timberland is a truly legendary brand in the world of men's fashion. He is best known for his famous yellow boots, but he also makes other equally comfortable shoes, including loafers. Like all brand shoes, they are made of genuine leather, have a comfortable sole and are of excellent quality. You will wear Timberland loafers for more than one season.
Tods
Tod's is an Italian luxury brand that specializes in clothing, footwear and accessories. He became famous after the release of the famous Gommino moccasins. Loafers and moccasins remain the brand's most popular footwear to date.
They are comfortable and stylishly designed for both men and women. In the collections you can find a variety of textures and colors, while they are absolutely universal, so they can fit into almost any style.
Tamaris
A well-known German brand that specializes in sewing footwear for the fair sex. The brand's shoes are created for those who prefer high quality, but at the same time do not forget about fashion and style. The brand has three main lines: classic, trend and active, among which you will surely find your perfect match.
Nando muzi
An Italian footwear brand whose footwear has become the standard of quality, elegance and chic. When sewing, the most daring design experiments are brought to life, which are to the liking of stylish and self-confident fashionistas. The brand's loafers look bold and elegant at the same time, so they can fit into any modern style of a young girl.
Geox
An Italian brand that creates shoes that breathe. The founder of the brand was the first to create a special shoe membrane that can breathe air. Basically, the brand specializes in sewing casual shoes. The brand's loafers are incredibly comfortable suede and leather shoes that are perfect for comfortable walks.