GuidesSep 29, 20263 min read

Velvet Loafers and Smoking Slippers: A Men's Guide

By Oswin Hyde · Last updated 29 September 2026

The short answer: velvet loafers, also called smoking slippers, are slip-on evening shoes with a velvet upper. They are one of the few alternatives to black patent shoes for black tie, and the easiest way to dress up for Christmas parties, winter weddings and New Year. Black velvet is the most versatile; bordo (burgundy) is the statement choice. Wear them with a dinner suit, a velvet jacket or dark tailoring, and keep them for dry evenings indoors.

Velvet loafers vs smoking slippers

The two names are used for the same kind of shoe: a soft velvet slip-on with a low, flat heel. "Smoking slipper" usually means a softer shape, often with an embroidered motif on the front; "velvet loafer" can mean a slightly more structured shoe. Both are evening shoes.

Style	What it is	Best for	Try
Velvet smoking loafer	A smarter velvet loafer shape	Black tie, weddings and evening events	Fraser Black
Personalised slipper	Velvet slipper with your initials	Gifts, grooms, special occasions	Charles Black Custom Initials

When to wear velvet loafers

Occasion	Works?	Tip
Black tie	Yes	Black velvet with a dinner suit, as an alternative to patent
Christmas and New Year parties	Yes	Black or bordo with dark tailoring or a velvet jacket
Winter weddings	Yes, for guests	Black velvet with a dark suit; grooms can wear them for the evening
Smart dinners	Yes	With dark trousers and a knit or blazer
The office	Rarely	Leather loafers are the better choice
Rain or outdoors	No	Velvet marks easily when wet

Which colour?

Black velvet works with a black or midnight dinner suit and with almost any dark outfit, so it is the best first pair. Bordo (a deep burgundy) adds colour and looks best with black, navy or grey tailoring. Match your socks to your trousers, not your shoes.

Socks or no socks?

With black tie, wear fine black socks. With a relaxed party outfit, bare ankles or no-show socks work, just as with summer loafers.

How should velvet loafers fit?

Snug around the heel, with no slipping as you walk.
Velvet has little stretch, so do not size down expecting it to give.
The leather lining softens and moulds to your foot with wear.
Check your size in our shoe size guide.

How to care for velvet shoes

Brush gently with a soft brush in the direction of the pile.
Keep them dry; if they get damp, let them dry naturally away from heat, then brush.
Store them with shoe trees or tissue so they keep their shape.
Avoid polish and leather cream on the velvet.

Frequently asked questions

Can you wear velvet loafers to black tie?

Yes. Black velvet loafers are a traditional alternative to black patent shoes with a dinner suit.

What is the difference between velvet loafers and smoking slippers?

They are largely the same shoe. Smoking slippers are usually softer and often embroidered; velvet loafers can be a little more structured.

What do you wear with velvet loafers?

A dinner suit, a velvet jacket, or dark tailoring such as a navy or charcoal suit. They also work with dark trousers and a knit for a smart party look.

Can you wear velvet loafers in winter?

Yes, indoors and on dry evenings. Avoid rain, as velvet marks easily when wet.

Should you wear socks with velvet loafers?

With black tie, wear fine black socks. For relaxed parties, no-show socks or bare ankles work.

Can velvet slippers be personalised?

Yes. The Charles Black Custom Initials can be personalised with your initials.

Shop the pieces in this guide: velvet loafers and smoking slippers · black loafers · bow ties · black tie dress code guide

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