Ellen Lynch, professor of Footwear and Accessories Design at New York City’s Fashion Institute of Technology, doesn't see it that way. “Sneakers are not going anywhere,” she says. "However, loafers are a cool shoe. Slip them on and off without worrying about laces. They’re casual, but you can wear them with a suit." From clunky lug soles to penny loafers without the penny to moccasin-like styles, they span the style spectrum. "You can wear them no matter who you are, how old you are or what you’re wearing,” notes Lynch.
As we get further removed from the pandemic years, we're going out more frequently and want to look put together. Lynch adds, “I’m not seeing sneakers on the subway.”
A word about price—a high one doesn’t necessarily mean quality, says Lynch. "Before buying, consider the material and construction. Stick with leather and make sure the top stitching is perfect and the soles are sewn on, not glued. Treat your shoes with respect. Polish the leather and don’t walk in the mud or rain with them on. If you do, make sure they’ve dried out before you wear them again."
Note that loafers with leather soles can be slippery—especially at first. Avoid the slide by adding rubber tips to toes and heels.
We all love our loafers!!! Had dinner last night at a friend's house and three out of the four of us were wearing loafers.
I wore Weejuns for 15 years - 1968-1983 and now they are back on my shoe shelf!
The best!!