If you’re intrigued by the elegance and versatility of loafers but unsure of how to incorporate them into your wardrobe, you've landed on the right page. Del Toro is here to help you not just navigate but master the art of styling loafers.
There’s no denying the timeless charm and versatile appeal of our loafers. The only question is, what do you wear loafers with? While there are very few wrong answers to this question, we do want to help you feel more certain about styling your new footwear.
By the end of this guide, you'll be brimming with ideas and eager to strut out the door, confident in your ability to pair loafers with a myriad of ensembles. We promise you tips and tricks that will catch eyes and draw compliments, every single time.
Before we get into what to wear with loafers, though, let’s start with a quick breakdown of why we prefer this type of shoe to most others.
Why Loafers Are a Must-Have in Your Wardrobe
Loafers are the unsung heroes of footwear. More than just a pair of shoes, they are an embodiment of timeless sophistication and comfort. They are the perfect blend of form and functionality, seamlessly straddling the line between formal elegance and casual chic.
The Timeless Charm of Loafers
The loafer's timeless appeal lies in its rich history and its ability to adapt to changing fashion trends. Initially the quintessential shoe for a relaxed weekend at home, loafers quickly gained popularity and found their place in the heart of haute couture.
Today, they enjoy universal appeal, seen gracing the runways of Milan and the streets of New York alike. These shoes are effortlessly stylish, offering an understated elegance that complements any look, whether you're attending a black-tie event or enjoying a Sunday brunch. That leads us to the next point we want to make…
The Versatility of Loafers in Both Casual and Formal Settings
If you're seeking versatility, look no further than loafers. Their clean lines and simple silhouette make them a chameleon in the world of shoes.
From linen shorts and polo tees on the beaches of Miami, to tweed suits in a London winter, loafers can be worn with just about anything. They're your go-to shoe for every season, occasion, and outfit.
Now - this versatility is actually a blessing and a curse. Because with so much variety comes so much uncertainty. If you can choose anything, then what do you wear with loafers for specific settings and occasions?
Fortunately, you don’t have to stress about what to wear with loafers. We'll guide you through the do's and don'ts, offer expert advice on what socks, pants, and tops to pair them with, and provide fashion-forward outfit inspiration for both gentlemen and ladies. Let's embark on this stylish journey together.
What Do You Wear Loafers With, Though?
So, what do you wear loafers with?
As we’ve already stated, loafers, with their minimalistic yet sophisticated design, are versatile enough to be paired with a wide range of outfits. They easily complement jeans and chinos, suit trousers and tailored shorts, dresses and skirts.
From workplace attire to leisurely weekend outfits, loafers never fail to add a touch of class. But, it's not just about the clothes you pair your loafers with; socks, accessories, and even the color of your loafers play a crucial role in the overall look.
We’ll start with one of the most hotly debated questions of all time as it pertains to what to wear with loafers: your socks.
What Socks to Wear With Loafers?
One of the most common debates is whether or not to wear loafers with socks. And even if you can get two people to agree on wearing socks with their loafers, the question then becomes - what socks do you wear with loafers?
Some fashion enthusiasts swear by the no-socks look, adding a hint of European flair to the outfit. This style works particularly well in warmer months with casual shorts or cropped trousers.
However, for others, socks are non-negotiable. This is because sockless loafers tend to become smelly, and can be uncomfortable in some settings too.
In this case, opt for low-rise socks that aren't visible above the shoe line, preserving the seamless look of your loafers. When you're dressing up, feel free to embrace statement socks with bold colors or patterns, but ensure they complement the rest of your attire.
What Pants Go Best With Loafers?
There are so many loafers pants to choose from - again, this can be attributed to the unparalleled versatility of this type of footwear.
For a relaxed look, try pairing your loafers with well-fitted jeans or chinos. Cuff the bottoms for a casual, stylish flair, revealing a hint of ankle.
For formal occasions, opt for suit trousers or tailored pants. The streamlined silhouette of loafers complements the neat, crisp lines of formal pants.
The types of loafer you wear should influence your pant selection. If you're sporting leather loafers, aim for darker pants like navy or charcoal. Suede loafers, on the other hand, look stunning with lighter hues.
What Sort of Tops Should You Pair With Loafers?
From blazers to button-downs, t-shirts to turtlenecks, loafers can be paired with a wide range of tops. For a casual, chic look, pair your loafers with a crisp white shirt and jeans. If you're aiming for a more formal style, try pairing them with a blazer or suit jacket. For the ladies, a breezy sundress or a structured blazer and trouser set pairs beautifully with loafers.
Accessorizing Your Look
Accessories can add an extra touch of personality to your loafer-centered outfit. A statement belt that matches the color of your loafers can add cohesion to your look.
Ladies can accessorize with statement jewelry like bold necklaces or cuff bracelets. For men, a well-placed pocket square or tie that complements the color of your loafers can tie the whole look together.
Remember, with loafers, less is often more. The shoes themselves are a statement, so keep your accessories subtle and sophisticated. That being said, you should feel confident in what to wear with loafers going forward - very few things are off limits! But if you’d like some specific recommendations, read our outfit inspirations below…
Outfit Inspiration For Guys
Before we get into some of our favorite men’s loafer looks, let’s make one thing abundantly clear. What you wear matters a lot less than you think - it mainly comes down to how you wear it.
You can style your loafers however you see fit if you are confident in your look and exude that confidence in every step you take. That being said, you can’t go wrong with these three looks for three different settings:
- Casual Weekend Style: Pair your brown leather loafers with a white t-shirt and light-washed, cuffed jeans. Add a light layer with an open plaid shirt. This relaxed look is perfect for a weekend brunch or a casual day out.
- Office-Ready Ensemble: For a smart-casual office look, wear your black leather loafers with navy chinos and a crisp white button-down shirt. Add a charcoal blazer to elevate the look, and if you're feeling adventurous, don a pair of fun, patterned socks.
- Evening Elegance: For a semi-formal dinner or cocktail party, pair your sleek black loafers with a tailored black suit. Opt for a white dress shirt, a slim black tie, and a pocket square that adds a pop of color. Don't forget to wear no-show socks to maintain the streamlined look of the outfit.
If you want more specific advice based on your outfit, explore our blog. You can learn about wearing loafers with a tuxedo or wearing loafers with a suit. But for now, we want to offer some loafer outfit inspiration for the ladies…
Outfit Inspiration For Ladies
Ladies can wear loafers with a variety of different dresses, blouses, or even shorts. If you aren’t sure what to wear with loafers, though, you can fall back on these three simple looks:
- Weekend Chic: Pair your cognac suede loafers with skinny blue jeans and a loose, flowy white blouse. Add a straw hat and oversized sunglasses for a laid-back, chic weekend look.
- Effortless Office Look: Create a sophisticated work outfit by pairing black leather loafers with a tailored black pant suit. Underneath, wear a blush pink silk blouse for a touch of femininity. Opt for minimal accessories and a statement handbag to complete the look.
- Date Night Outfit: For a unique and trendy date-night look, pair your black leather loafers with a midi-length, flowy floral dress. Add a leather jacket for an edgy touch. This outfit combines femininity with a dash of daring, perfect for an evening out.
These are just a few examples of how versatile loafers can be. If you follow us on social you’re sure to be constantly introduced to new ideas on what to wear with loafers. Remember, it's all about finding a balance that suits your personal style and comfort.
More Advice on Wearing Loafers in Style
So, what do you wear loafers with? Perhaps a better question is what can’t you wear loafers with, as the options for styling this type of footwear are seemingly endless.
At this point, you should feel a lot more confident in piecing your outfit together with your Del Toro loafers as the start of the show. Before we bring this conversation to a close, though, we want to offer a few more pieces of parting advice on how to style loafers for men and women alike:
General Advice on Styling Outfits With Loafers
The main takeaway from this article should be that you can wear loafers with anything. But this type of shoe truly shines when paired with balance and contrast.
For instance, if your outfit leans casual, upscale loafers can add an element of sophistication. Conversely, if your outfit is formal, a pair of suede loafers can add a touch of laid-back luxury. The versatility of loafers is truly their superpower - allowing you to add your own personality twist to any outfit.
When to Wear Loafers and When to Opt for Something Different
Although loafers are incredibly versatile, they may not suit every occasion. Extremely rugged outdoor activities may require a different footwear choice.
Every so often you may want to put your personality on display a bit more. And for that, our men’s velvet slippers or women’s velvet slippers are a great choice. You want to keep them guessing, after all - and despite the appeal of loafers, it’s fun to have options on hand!
However, from casual outings to formal business meetings, and from date nights to wedding receptions, loafers can fit the bill perfectly.
In comparing loafers vs oxfords, loafers vs boat shoes, and loafers vs driving shoes, they are the undisputed luxury footwear choice for sophisticated gentlemen and ladies. However, there is one last thing we have to discuss if you want to dress to impress: the specific loafers you slip into!
The Loafers Themselves Matter Most - Which is Why You Should Shop at Del Toro
Not all loafers are created equal, and quality matters when it comes to footwear. If you have million-dollar style and cheap loafers, it’ll show - and it’ll detract from your effort and image.
The good news? The finest handmade Italian shoes are a click away - whether you’re looking for business casual loafers or the most luxurious styles you can get your hands on.
At Del Toro, our loafers are handcrafted in Italy, using the finest materials. This means unparalleled comfort, a perfect fit, and a shoe that grows more comfortable with each wear. Our range of styles and colors ensure that there's a perfect pair for everyone, ready to elevate your look and amplify your confidence.
So, check out our men’s Italian loafers or women’s Italian loafers and see the difference firsthand. You deserve shoes without compromise - stunning, sophisticated styles that feel good on your feet and last a lifetime. What are you waiting for?
Final Thoughts on What to Wear With Loafers
In summary, what do you wear loafers with? Causal looks, formal fits, nothing is off-limits. We’ve shared general advice on what to wear with loafers along with specific outfit inspiration in different settings.
While we've provided plenty of guidance and inspiration, your personal style should always take center stage. Loafers offer a unique opportunity to express your style, be it classic, edgy, minimal, or bold. So why wait? Start exploring the limitless possibilities that loafers offer, and let your Del Toro loafers be the perfect finishing touch to your outfits, one step at a time.
If you want to learn more about the thrilling, fashion-forward world of loafers, explore our blogs. You can dive into the penny loafers history, or learn about how to break in loafers, how to clean loafers, or loafers sizing.
Otherwise, it’s time we brought this conversation on what to wear with loafers to a close. And with that said, there’s just one thing left for you to do: head over to our catalog and explore the best Italian shoes online.
Whether you’re searching for the best fall loafers, the best summer loafers, or even the best spring loafers, you can rest assured the perfect pair is waiting to be discovered at Del Toro. Step up your footwear fashion today and treat yourself to something special.
