Men's Loafers Guide: Types, Tan and Suede Loafers, and What to Wear
By Oswin Hyde · Last updated 11 October 2026
The short answer: loafers are laceless slip-on shoes that sit between smart and casual. Black leather loafers are the smartest and work with suits; tan leather loafers are the most versatile colour for spring and summer: wear them with navy, grey, white, olive or beige chinos, lightweight suits and jeans, with no-show socks or bare ankles. Suede loafers are softer and more relaxed.
Types of loafer
| Type | What it is | Formality | Try |
| Penny loafer | A leather strap across the top with a slot | Smart-casual to smart | Wyatt Black, Wyatt Tan, Peter Brown Suede |
| Tassel loafer | Small leather tassels on the vamp | Smart-casual to smart | Freddie Tan, Alvin Brown, Issac Brown |
| Horsebit loafer | A metal bit across the vamp | Smart | Samuel Bordo, Alexander Black |
| Plain loafer | Clean vamp with no trim | Versatile | Morgan Sand |
| Woven loafer | Woven leather upper | Summer, casual | Finley Tan, Santiago Brown |
| Driving loafer | Soft, flexible, rubber-studded sole | Casual | Jenson Tobacco, Nigel Brown |
| Velvet loafer | Velvet upper, often embroidered | Evening, black tie | Fraser Black; see our velvet loafers guide |
Black loafers
Black leather is the smartest colour for a loafer, and the one to wear with charcoal, black and navy suits. A penny loafer such as Wyatt Black or a horsebit such as Alexander Black works for the office and weddings. For black tie, choose patent, such as Clifford Black Patent, or velvet, such as Fraser Black. Browse all men's black loafers.
What to wear with tan loafers
| Trousers | Works? | Tip |
| Navy chinos or suit | Yes: the classic pairing | Add a white shirt or light blue oxford |
| Grey trousers | Yes | Light or mid grey is best |
| Beige, stone or olive | Yes | Choose a darker tan for contrast |
| White trousers or shorts | Yes, summer | Keep the rest simple |
| Mid or light blue jeans | Yes | Cuff or crop to show the ankle |
| Black trousers | Avoid | Wear black loafers or burgundy loafers instead |
Common mistakes with tan loafers
- The wrong fit. Loafers have no laces, so fit is everything. Your heel should not slip out as you walk. Leather will soften and give slightly, so choose a snug fit.
- Visible sports socks. Wear no-show socks in summer, or fine socks that match your trousers in cooler weather.
- Trousers that are too long. Loafers look best with a short break or none, so the shoe and a little ankle show.
- A mismatched belt. Wear a tan or mid-brown belt. See how to match your belt and shoes.
- Letting them dry out. Condition tan leather regularly; light leather shows scuffs and water marks quickly.
How to style suede loafers
Suede loafers are the most relaxed loafer. Sand, tobacco and brown suede suit linen, chinos and denim; navy and grey suede work with light trousers. Try the Morgan Sand, Reginald Navy horsebit or Barclay Tan tassel. Protect suede with a spray before first wear and avoid heavy rain. For care, see our leather shoe care guide.
Loafers vs sandals in summer
Loafers are smarter: they work for the office, restaurants and weddings. Leather sandals are for holidays and very hot, casual days. If you need one pair for a summer trip, choose a lightweight woven or suede loafer.
Are loafers in style?
Yes. Loafers are one of the most popular smart-casual shoes, worn with tailoring, chinos and jeans alike. Horsebit, penny and suede loafers are the most popular styles, and a chunky-soled loafer adds a modern edge.
Frequently asked questions
What colour trousers go with tan loafers?
Navy, grey, beige, stone, olive and white trousers, and blue jeans. Avoid black trousers with tan loafers.
Should you wear socks with loafers?
In summer wear no-show socks for a bare-ankle look. In cooler months, fine socks that match your trousers look smart.
How should loafers fit?
Snug, with no heel slip as you walk. Leather loafers soften and mould to your foot, so they should not feel loose when new.
Can you wear loafers with a suit?
Yes. Black, dark brown or burgundy leather loafers suit business and lightweight summer suits. Tan loafers suit navy, grey and linen suits.
What is the difference between penny and tassel loafers?
Penny loafers have a strap with a slot across the top. Tassel loafers have small tassels on the front and look slightly dressier.
Can you wear suede loafers in the rain?
It is best not to. Protect suede with a spray and brush it once dry if it does get wet.
Shop the pieces in this guide: men's loafers · black loafers · tan loafers · tassel loafers · leather loafers · suede loafers · velvet loafers
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