What To Know
- Bass was known for carrying a penny in his pocket, and he liked to place it on top of the leather vamp of his loafers as a decorative touch.
- Bartlett created the shoes for the prestigious Ivy League universities in the United States, and they were designed to be comfortable and stylish for the well-dressed students who attended those schools.
- The shoes are typically worn with socks, and they are often paired with trousers, a button-down shirt, and a blazer for a polished, preppy look.
Penny loafers are one of the most iconic styles of men’s dress shoes. They’re versatile, comfortable, and timeless. But have you ever wondered why they’re called “penny loafers”?
The name “penny loafer” comes from the practice of slipping a penny into the slot at the front of the shoe. This kept the shoes from slipping off and made them more comfortable.
But there’s more to penny loafers than just their name. They’re also known for their unique construction and design. The shoes are made from a single piece of leather, which is then hand-stitched together. This creates a durable, flexible shoe that is perfect for any occasion.
Penny loafers have been around for decades, but they’re still popular today.
Why Are Penny Loafers Called That?
The origin of penny loafers can be traced back to the early 20th century, when they were worn by young men in the United States. They were often worn with casual outfits, such as jeans and t-shirts, and were seen as a symbol of relaxed, informal style.
The name “penny loafer” is believed to have been coined in the 1950s, when a young man named John Bass, who was a student at the preppy New England private school Phillips Exeter Academy, began wearing the shoes. Bass was known for carrying a penny in his pocket, and he liked to place it on top of the leather vamp of his loafers as a decorative touch. The other students at the school soon began to imitate Bass, and the name “penny loafer” was born.
Penny loafers continue to be a popular shoe style today, and they are often worn with casual and formal outfits alike. They are a versatile and comfortable option that can be worn in a variety of settings, from dressy events to everyday wear.
When Were Penny Loafers First Invented And By Whom?
- 1. Penny loafers, also known as “preppy shoes,” were first invented in 1936 by a man named John Bartlett.
- 2. Bartlett created the shoes for the prestigious Ivy League universities in the United States, and they were designed to be comfortable and stylish for the well-dressed students who attended those schools.
- 3. The shoes quickly became popular among college students and young professionals, and they began to gain widespread popularity in the 1950s.
- 4. Penny loafers are characterized by their distinctive “penny” or “coin slot” design, which is made from a single piece of leather or suede that is folded over and sewn together.
- 5. The shoes are typically worn with socks, and they are often paired with trousers, a button-down shirt, and a blazer for a polished, preppy look.
What Materials Are Typically Used To Make Penny Loafers?
Penny loafers, also known as “moccasins” or “driving shoes,” are a type of casual footwear that are typically made of soft, flexible leather. They are characterized by their moccasin-like construction, with a rounded toe and sewn-on leather sole.
Penny loafers are often worn with casual outfits, such as jeans or chinos, and are considered a classic and stylish choice for men. They are also popular for their comfort and breathability, making them ideal for warm weather or for wearing indoors.
In addition to leather, penny loafers can also be made from a variety of other materials, including suede, canvas, and cotton. However, leather remains the most common and traditional material for penny loafers.
Penny loafers are available in a wide range of styles, colors, and designs, making them a versatile choice for men of all ages and fashion preferences. Whether you’re looking for a simple, classic pair or something more trendy and stylish, there’s sure to be a penny loafer out there for you.
How Are Penny Loafers Typically Styled?
Penny loafers are a classic and versatile shoe style that can be worn with a variety of outfits. They are typically made of leather or suede and are characterized by their distinctive penny slot across the front.
In terms of styling, penny loafers can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual look, they can be paired with jeans or chinos and a button-down shirt or t-shirt. For a more formal look, they can be paired with dress pants, a blazer, and a button-down shirt.
Penny loafers can also be styled with a variety of accessories. For example, they can be paired with socks that match the pants or shoes for a more formal look. Alternatively, they can be paired with no-show socks for a more casual look.
Overall, penny loafers are a versatile and stylish shoe that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They are a great way to add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Do Penny Loafers Come In Different Colors And Patterns?
Penny loafers are a type of shoe that is characterized by their distinctive leather sole and rounded toe, and they are often considered to be a classic and timeless style. However, one thing that you may not know about penny loafers is that they can come in a variety of different colors, patterns, and materials.
One of the most popular colors for penny loafers is black, as this is a classic style that can be worn with a variety of outfits. However, there are also many other color options available, such as brown, navy, and tan. If you are looking for a more unique or bold look, there are also penny loafers available in brighter colors, such as red, blue, and green.
In addition to different colors, penny loafers can also come in different patterns. For example, you can find penny loafers with stripes, polka dots, or other designs. These patterns can add a fun and whimsical touch to your outfit, and they can be a great way to add some personality to your footwear.
When it comes to materials, penny loafers are typically made from leather. However, there are also penny loafers made from other materials, such as suede or canvas. These materials can be more casual or informal, and they can be a great option for everyday wear or for more casual occasions.
Overall, penny loafers are a versatile and stylish shoe that can be worn with a variety of outfits. They come in a variety of different colors, patterns, and materials, so you can choose a pair that perfectly suits your personal style.
What Are Some Popular Brands Of Penny Loafers?
Penny loafers are a type of casual shoe that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. They are characterized by their low, slip-on design, and are typically made from leather or canvas. Penny loafers are popular among both men and women and are often worn with chinos or jeans for a casual, yet stylish look.
Some popular brands of penny loafers include:
* Sperry Top-Sider: Sperry Top-Sider is an American brand that specializes in boat shoes and other types of casual footwear. Their penny loafers are known for their high-quality construction and classic, timeless style.
* Alden: Alden is a high-end shoe brand that was founded in Massachusetts in 1884. Their penny loafers are made from premium leathers and feature Goodyear welt construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
* Gucci: Gucci is a luxury fashion brand that is known for its high-end clothing and accessories. Their penny loafers are made from high-quality materials and feature the iconic Gucci logo.
* Tod’s: Tod’s is a high-end Italian fashion brand that is known for its luxury shoes and leather goods. Their penny loafers are made from premium materials and feature a classic, timeless style.
* Paul Smith: Paul Smith is a British fashion brand that is known for its high-quality clothing and accessories. Their penny loafers are made from premium materials and feature a classic, timeless style.
* Church’s: Church’s is a British luxury shoe brand that was founded in 1873. Their penny loafers are made from premium materials and feature Goodyear welt construction, which makes them durable and long-lasting.
Final Note
In conclusion, the story of why penny loafers are called “penny loafers” is an interesting one. The shoes were originally created by an American company called Weejun, and the name “penny” comes from the practice of putting a penny in the slot at the front of the shoe to hold it in place. The shoes became popular in the 1950s and have remained popular ever since. They are a comfortable and stylish choice for everyday wear, and their name is a testament to their history and tradition.
