Let Us Convince You: Loafers Make the Best Dress Shoes

Loafers are becoming more and more a wardrobe staple – their versatility is proven as they easily transition from black tie to formal to business casual to everyday. It’s that very versatility that makes loafers an ideal shoe for formal occasions. Choosing a loafer for formal events not only ensures that you’ll stand out in a sea of lace-ups, but you’ll also get more use out of them as you pair them with work wear and more casual options. Spring weather signals the season full of proms, weddings and graduations, so slip on a pair of loafers for all your upcoming important days. Don’t know where to begin? We have some ideas.

The Troy horse-bit loafer is the ideal shoe for every man – the guys who stick to the basics to the sartorial risk-takers and everyone in between. In a rich mahogany, Troy pairs well with shades of blue and makes a perfect partner for patterns like windowpanes and gingham. The sharply pointed toe creates a chicness that most loafers lack, without being too obvious. And you won’t have to worry about sacrificing comfort since this style, like all Marc Nolan shoes, has full leather lining and additionally features elastic inserts inside its peaks for a more flexible fit. Also available in black and chestnut brown, Troy is the ideal shoe to make your foray into horse-bit loafer territory – it’s a very chic place to be.

Another striking option is the Landon suede tassel loafer in admiral – a deep midnight hue that’s sumptuous in both color and texture. A sharp chisel toe gives this shoe a sleek silhouette and a unique shape while the tassels keep the touch of delicacy that gives this style its formality. The classic style and versatile color makes Landon a viable option for most formalwear – suits in shades of grey pop perfectly against the blue shade and simple patterns like pinstripes and plaids ensure that your look will be multidimensional. With a black sole, you won’t fret if you can pull off a navy and black color combination – you definitely can.

Few things emulate casual comfort while maintaining a sense of refined luxury like a pair of velvet loafers. The Winston embroidered velvet loafer in a deep wine hue may seem daunting at first glance, but a velvet driving shoe is more versatile than it leads on. With simple yet opulent gold embroidery, this shoe is just extra enough to add a luxurious element to a white tuxedo but subdued enough to pair with patterns or florals. With additional black and navy color options, any outfit can take a cue from Hugh Hefner’s aesthetic.

Godfrey in black is arguably even better suited for formalwear than your standard black leather lace-ups. The chic Belgian loafer silhouette is supplemented by a black grosgrain bow while the not-quite-patent leather adds some extra shine to your suit.

All eyes will be on you as you walk down the aisle, work your way to the middle of the dance floor, find your seat at the opera, step into the room at a black tie gala… Any occasion that calls for formality, Godfrey sees your dress code and raises it.

Convinced? Shop even more loafers here, and best of luck in your sartorial adventures.

Written by Hannah Swank

Photography by Kevin Reodica