Since 1936, the classic loafer has held up as the leisure shoe of the aesthete. And while the loafer’s heritage is steeped in 19th century Norwegian fishing villages, where its slip-on silhouette was crafted from soft leather and suede, the loafer’s timeless shape and understated appeal has continued to hold its place as an upper-crust wardrobe staple.
In the 1930s, these traditional Norwegian styles were recast in polished leather with a single saddle strap detail by American bootmaker, George Henry (G.H) Bass. Nicknamed the Penny loafer, it was this version that elevated the humble fisherman’s shoe to Ivy League and Wall Street icon status, and it’s been riding high on the luxury fashion scene ever since.
From Daisy Edgar Jones in Gucci’s lug sole version to Elsa Hosk wearing quilted Chanel and Gigi Hadid sporting high-shine Miu Miu’s, the signature silhouette has remained firmly on trend.
In 2025, it was the boat-style loafer that captured high fashion’s attention. After being revived in brown suede and leather on the Sprint Summer 24 runways of Miu Miu and Bally, the boat shoe became a must-have holiday accessory and trans-seasonal footwear essential.
From the sophisticated Penny slot to the boat and textural moccasins, this is the T editor’s round up of chic loafers to add to your off-duty oeuvre.
