The Loafer Guide: How to Choose, Style & Wear Leather Loafers
Why the Loafer Endures
The loafer has been a staple of women’s wardrobes since the 1950s — and unlike most footwear trends, it has never really left. The reason is simple: a well-made loafer combines the ease of a slip-on with the structure and polish of a proper shoe. It works across contexts that most other shoes cannot navigate. You can wear a loafer to a board meeting, a weekend market, or a dinner reservation and be appropriately dressed for all three.
At 37 Brand, loafers are our most-developed category. We produce across the full spectrum — classic penny loafers, platform loafers, tassel loafers, chain-detail loafers, studded loafers, horsebit loafers, and oxfords — each developed on its own last for its own purpose.
Loafer Styles Explained
The Penny Loafer
The original loafer silhouette. A clean, structured upper with a strap across the vamp and a small slot — the “penny slot” — at the centre. The penny loafer is the most versatile loafer you can own: it reads as formal enough for the office, relaxed enough for the weekend. Our penny loafers are available in smooth leather, suede, and pebbled leather.
The Platform Loafer
A penny loafer silhouette set on a raised platform sole — typically 3–5cm. The platform adds height without the instability of a heel, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The lug sole version adds grip and a more utilitarian edge to the same silhouette. Our platform loafers include studded and chain-detail variations for a more directional look.
The Tassel Loafer
A loafer with a decorative tassel across the vamp — a detail that originated in American prepwear and has been reinterpreted continuously since. The tassel adds movement and visual interest without changing the fundamental comfort or versatility of the silhouette. Available in both black and brown leather in our collection.
The Horsebit Loafer
Defined by a metal bar and ring detail across the vamp, the horsebit loafer has strong associations with Italian luxury footwear. Our version is produced in dark mocha pebbled leather with a gold-tone horsebit — a considered, quietly luxurious everyday shoe.
The Chain-Detail & Studded Loafer
Contemporary interpretations of the loafer that use hardware as a design element. Our chain-detail platform loafer carries a fine chain across the vamp; our studded loafer uses tonal studs on a dark brown platform upper. Both are statement pieces that still function as wearable everyday shoes.
How Loafers Should Fit
A loafer should feel snug across the instep without pinching. The heel should not slip when walking — some initial movement is normal with new leather, which will firm up as the shoe molds to your foot, but excessive slipping suggests the shoe is too large. The toe box should give your toes room to sit naturally without being compressed.
Leather loafers will stretch slightly across the width with wear. If you are between sizes, size down rather than up — the leather will accommodate, but a shoe that is too large will never feel secure.
How to Style Leather Loafers
With tailoring: A loafer worn with a straight-leg trouser and a clean ankle gap is one of the most consistently elegant combinations in women’s dressing. Works with suits, wide-leg trousers, and midi skirts equally well.
With denim: Slim or straight jeans with a turned cuff, a loafer, and a simple top. The loafer elevates denim without trying to dress it up too aggressively.
With dresses and skirts: A loafer with a midi or maxi dress creates an intentional, grounded contrast. Platform loafers work particularly well here, adding height while keeping the silhouette relaxed.
With socks: A fine-knit ankle sock or a no-show sock are both appropriate. A visible sock — particularly in a contrasting colour or texture — is a considered styling choice, not a mistake.
Shop Our Loafer Collection
Browse the full 37 Brand loafer range — from classic penny loafers in smooth leather to chain-detail platform loafers in suede. All styles are produced in genuine leather or genuine suede and ship to 44 countries.