What To Know
- Go for a casual midi skirt or a flowy sundress and pair it with your penny loafers for a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
- Combine a pair of chinos with a cozy sweater and your penny loafers for a smart casual look that’s perfect for brunch, shopping, or a casual date night.
- Choose a dark-colored suit and a classic white shirt, and opt for a pair of leather penny loafers in a rich brown or black.
Penny loafers are a classic footwear choice that has stood the test of time. Their versatility makes them a must-have for any wardrobe, but knowing how to dress penny loafers effectively can elevate your style and ensure you always look put-together. This guide will explore various ways to style penny loafers, from casual to formal, and provide tips on choosing the right pair for your needs.
The History of Penny Loafers
The penny loafer’s story begins in the early 20th century. It’s believed that the shoe was inspired by Norwegian farmers‘ shoes, which featured a distinctive “saddle” across the vamp. The penny loafer’s name comes from the coin slot on the vamp, which was originally intended to hold a lucky penny. Over the years, the penny loafer has become a symbol of preppy style and has been embraced by generations of fashion enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Penny Loafers for You
Before diving into styling, it’s important to choose the right pair of penny loafers. Consider these factors:
- Material: Leather penny loafers are the most classic choice, offering durability and a polished look. Suede penny loafers provide a softer, more casual feel. You can even find penny loafers in canvas or other materials for a more modern twist.
- Color: Black and brown are the most versatile colors, but don’t shy away from bolder hues like burgundy, navy, or even white.
- Fit: Penny loafers should fit snugly but not too tightly. Make sure you can wiggle your toes and that the heel doesn’t slip.
- Style: Penny loafers come in various styles, from traditional to contemporary. Consider the shape of the toe (round, almond, pointed), the heel height, and the overall silhouette.
Casual Chic: Mastering the Everyday Look
Penny loafers are perfect for creating effortless, casual outfits. Here’s how to nail this look:
- Jeans and a T-shirt: This is a classic combination that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Opt for a pair of straight-leg or slim-fit jeans and a plain T-shirt, then slip on your penny loafers for a polished yet relaxed vibe.
- Shorts and a Button-Down: For warmer weather, pair your penny loafers with shorts and a button-down shirt. Choose a light-wash denim or chino short, and tuck in your shirt for a more polished look.
- Skirts and Dresses: Penny loafers can also be dressed down with skirts and dresses. Go for a casual midi skirt or a flowy sundress and pair it with your penny loafers for a comfortable and stylish ensemble.
Smart Casual: Elevating Your Everyday Style
Penny loafers can effortlessly transition from casual to smart casual. Here are some ways to achieve this:
- Chinos and a Sweater: Combine a pair of chinos with a cozy sweater and your penny loafers for a smart casual look that’s perfect for brunch, shopping, or a casual date night.
- Blazer and Jeans: A blazer adds instant sophistication to any outfit. Pair it with your favorite jeans and penny loafers for a polished and stylish look.
- Dress Pants and a Blouse: For a more polished smart casual look, try pairing your penny loafers with dress pants and a blouse. Choose a fitted blouse in a neutral color and complete the look with a statement necklace or scarf.
Formal Elegance: Penny Loafers for Special Occasions
While not the most traditional formal footwear, penny loafers can be dressed up for special occasions. Here are some tips:
- Suit and Tie: For a more modern take on formal attire, try pairing your penny loafers with a suit and tie. Choose a dark-colored suit and a classic white shirt, and opt for a pair of leather penny loafers in a rich brown or black.
- Dress and Heels: If you’re looking for a more feminine approach, try pairing your penny loafers with a dress and heels. Choose a dress with a simple silhouette and add a pair of heels to elevate the look.
- Eveningwear: You can even dress up your penny loafers for evening events. Pair them with a cocktail dress or a jumpsuit for a chic and unexpected look.
Choosing the Right Color and Material for the Occasion
The color and material of your penny loafers will also influence the overall look of your outfit. Here’s a quick guide:
- Black Leather: Classic and versatile, black leather penny loafers work well with both casual and formal outfits.
- Brown Leather: Another timeless choice, brown leather penny loafers offer a slightly more relaxed vibe.
- Suede: Suede penny loafers are perfect for casual and smart casual outfits, adding a touch of texture and sophistication.
- White: White penny loafers are a bold choice that can add a touch of brightness to any outfit. They work well with both casual and smart casual looks.
Accessorizing Your Penny Loafer Look
Accessorizing is key to completing your penny loafer look. Consider these tips:
- Socks: For casual outfits, you can go sockless or choose fun and colorful socks to add a pop of personality. For more formal occasions, stick to classic black or navy socks.
- Jewelry: A simple necklace, bracelet, or watch can elevate your penny loafer look.
- Bag: Choose a bag that complements your outfit and your penny loafers. A crossbody bag or a tote bag are both good choices.
- Belt: If you’re wearing a belt with your outfit, make sure it complements the color of your penny loafers.
Penny Loafers: A Timeless and Versatile Choice
Penny loafers offer a timeless and versatile style that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. By following these tips, you can create stylish and polished outfits that showcase your personal style.
Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Shoe, a Style Statement
Penny loafers are more than just a comfortable and practical footwear choice. They are a statement piece that can elevate any outfit and showcase your personal style. From casual to formal, penny loafers offer endless possibilities for creating stylish and unique looks. So, embrace the versatility of this classic shoe and experiment with different styles and combinations to find your perfect penny loafer look.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I wear penny loafers with a suit?
A: While not the most traditional choice, penny loafers can be dressed up for formal occasions, including wearing them with a suit. Choose a dark-colored suit and a classic white shirt, and opt for a pair of leather penny loafers in a rich brown or black.
Q: What type of socks should I wear with penny loafers?
A: For casual outfits, you can go sockless or choose fun and colorful socks to add a pop of personality. For more formal occasions, stick to classic black or navy socks.
Q: How do I clean penny loafers?
A: Leather penny loafers can be cleaned with a damp cloth and a mild soap. Suede penny loafers should be cleaned with a suede brush.
Q: What are some good brands for penny loafers?
A: Some popular brands for penny loafers include:
- Cole Haan
- Allen Edmonds
- Gucci
- Tod’s
- Clarks
- Sperry
- Bass
Q: How do I know if my penny loafers fit correctly?
A: Penny loafers should fit snugly but not too tightly. Make sure you can wiggle your toes and that the heel doesn‘t slip. You should also be able to walk comfortably in them without any rubbing or blisters.
