Why are loafers suddenly having a moment?

From the options available to the reasons behind their popularity, we break down everything you need to know about the season’s most-wanted shoe

In the past, it wouldn’t have been entirely inaccurate to describe loafers as a pair of practical or professional shoes. The earliest, hardwearing iterations–which surfaced in the 1930s–were typically teamed with tailored trousers and put to work from nine to five. However, today, the options available are markedly different from their predecessors. Browse through the latest collections of storied fashion houses and you’ll likely come by several loafers that venture out of the office and can adapt to many unexpected areas of your life. For those wondering what’s fueling the recent reimagination of a shoe that has been around for decades, and where some of the most sought-after versions can be found, we decided to do a little research. 

The current crop 

The list of luxury labels that stock cult-favourite loafers features some usual suspects and some surprises. Gucci, for instance, has always been a go-to source–the dressed-up variations of the Horsebit loafer, which came into existence in 1953, are still coveted by many. Chanel, however, is a comparatively new addition. The French fashion house’s shoe section now also sees a generous helping of quilted and two-toned loafers alongside its famous sling-back pumps and ballet flats. In recent times, other labels that have served up successful spins on the staple style include Prada and Miu Miu. While the former is known for its influencer-approved, chunky iteration that comes bearing a triangle plaque, the latter is making waves with candy-coloured and Crayola versions. 

However, skeptical first-timers, who are unsure about investing in a pair with a hefty price tag can choose from local labels that deliver out-of-the-box yet accessible options. “We’ve used our signature geometric designs and combined classic shades such as black and olive to elevate the classic silhouette of loafers,” says Neha Kumthekar, founder of footwear label Oceedee. In addition to contemporary loafers, there are a few festive reinterpretations which are quickly finding favour with an Indian audience. One example is the loafer-jutti hybrid by Fizzy Goblet. “We spent months doing R&D and came up with a concept that combines the loafer and the jutti. It’s super comfortable and has been a bestselling category for us,” says the celebrity-loved label’s founder Laksheeta Govil.

The reasons behind the rise 

If you look closely, you’ll find that the presence of loafers on the websites of heavyweight and homegrown labels is no coincidence. There are several concrete reasons behind the growing popularity of the near-century-old shoe. As we slowly come out of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are ready to take a break from casual footwear but we aren’t exactly eager to step out in constricting high heels. The fashion-forward loafers we’re seeing now reside in between these two extremes and are just the middle ground that so many of us are in search of. “To me, loafers are a timeless trend. I think they have started to become increasingly popular as we begin to prioritise comfort along with style,” confirms London-based fashion influencer Shloka Narang Sensarma who has been a fan of loafers since her teenage years and cites a black-and-white pair from Tod’s as her current favourite. 

Kumthekar attests to this insight and shares another reason why loafers have amassed a large following. “They are dressy yet hassle-free and easy to slip into. You don’t need to worry about straps or laces,” she explains. Additionally, those who are moving towards making smarter, more long-lasting purchases are drawn to loafers, particularly those which are crafted using supple leather, because of their ability to age gracefully. Any cracks or changes in colour only give them character. 

Tipping point 

Apart from the above attributes, when it comes to women, in particular, loafers are now more welcome than before because rigid, restrictive dress codes are constantly being challenged. It’s no longer mandatory to squeeze into staggering stilettos for an important event or even an evening out. Just like sneakers have come to befriend everything from lehengas to gowns, loafers, too, are starting to feel at home with a very varied range of outfits that they wouldn’t have traditionally partnered with. 

For inspiration, look to Hailey Bieber. The model has made loafers a mainstay in her wardrobe and has been spotted pairing them with slouchy jeans, distressed denim shorts, blazer dresses and miniskirts. What all her looks have in common though is a pair of socks, an accessory that countless celebrities and influencers from across the globe seem to swear by, especially when the outfit at hand involves a short silhouette. “A pair of loafers looks super chic with a loose suit but for a trendier approach, I would style them with a skirt, and add in a pair of long socks if you live in the cold,” says Narang Sensarma, making a strong case for the strategy that will not only up the cool quotient of your look but also keep you toasty when the temperature dips in the coming months.

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