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First came the chunky lug-sole loafer, then supermodel-approved smoking loafer, followed by the classically cool driving loafer. And now, our attention has shifted to yet another loafer trend poised to dominate our wish lists and shopping carts: Introducing the sultry suede loafer, which for fall and winter, screams “chic” no matter which way it’s styled. Of course, the aforementioned loafer styles are accounted for–our favorites being a traditional suede moccasin from Vince to Valentino’s platform pick.
Vogue’s Suede Loafer Wish List:
- The Logo Loafer: Saint Laurent Le Loafer logo-embellished suede loafers, $995
- The Under-$300: Black Suede Studio Arrow suede loafers, $298
- The Burgundy Beauty: Bottega Veneta Astaire suede loafers, $990
- The Classic Black: Khaite Alessio loafers, $1,200
- The Minimalist Model: ATP Atelier Airola suede penny loafers, $590
- The Tassel-Adorned Loafer: G.H.Bass Layla Weejuns loafers, $195
- The Signature Suede Style: Gucci Jordaan loafers, $990
- The Chic Chocolate: Hvoya Bowie suede loafers, $280
- The Boat Shoe: Vince Marin suede boat loafers, $295
- The Cherry Red Choice: M.Gemi The Sacca Donna loafers, $298
Suede is, of course, a seasonal favorite in the handbag and boot department—but this year the sumptuous texture is unmissable, cropping up on nearly everything from jackets (blazers, shackets, trench coats!) to mini- and midiskirts. Rumblings of the trend were first felt last spring when labels like Prada, Carven, Altuzarra, and even Staud took suede out of the saloon and brought it onto their fall runways. Come September this year, the material anchored many fashion crowd ’fits, who opted for the material as subtle accessories and head-to-toe looks.
As far as the suede loafer goes, consider it one of the easiest ways into the trend for this season (and next!). While classic black options are a closet no-brainer, like Khaite’s beloved Alessio style, rich chocolatey brown styles from Aeyde, Emme Parsons, and Saint Laurent are the ultimate new neutral. The latter compliments any chic city outfit to perfection, adding a simple yet subtle colorful pop. Not to mention that fashion sourcer and Vogue contributor, Gab Waller, has officially declared these as the ultimate classic with a twist. In her monthly Hot List, she told Vogue, “We’ve all come to know and love the classic Saint Laurent loafer, but with the introduction of chocolate suede this season, it proved to me that this is a must-have.”
Speaking of color punches, cherry red suede loafers from J.Crew and M.Gemi promise to brighten up any mid-winter wardrobe blues. (Statement red is still a top trending hue.) For low-key polish, nothing beats a preppy penny loafer, with suede styles ranging from Black Suede Studio to G.H. Bass’s tassel-adorned pair. If it’s a driving loafer you’re after, It items include those from Tod’s, Vince, Reformation, and Miu Miu. You know what they (sort of) say…if the loafer fits—buy them all!