The moccasins and loafers brands you (maybe) don't know about

Genderless, versatile, and cool, loafers are a classic and must-have item in every wardrobe. The Norwegian shoemaker Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger introduced the slip-on to the world with a model called the Aurland Moccasin, inspired by the footwear of Native Americans and Norwegian farmers. G.H. Bass later reinterpreted it, creating the penny loafers as we know them today. Since they became a must-have among Ivy League schools in the 1930s, establishing themselves as a symbol of preppy style, loafers have constantly reinvented themselves, available in various colors and materials, and adorned with distinctive details, from tassels to Gucci’s iconic horsebit. In 2024, they remain a perfect go-to option for any season, easily paired with anything as a mannish alternative to ballet flats. Hailey Bieber and Zoë Kravitz wear them with jeans, slip dresses, pleated mini skirts, tailored sheath dresses, trench coats, long skirts, or Bermuda shorts. Some prefer them in black or brown, others in pastel colors; some want them ultra-flat, others chunky with a thick track sole. The important thing is that they are comfortable and suit your personal style. If you don't already have a pair in your closet, they should be added to your shopping list this season, but which ones to choose? The market offers many possibilities. You can rely on well-known names like Prada and Tod’s or opt for lesser-known brands that offer super interesting models. Here’s a selection of loafer brands you might not know, but should.

Scarosso

Scarosso is synonymous with luxury made in Italy. From cutting and sewing to coloring, brushing, and polishing the leather, every step of the production process is entrusted to the craftsmanship of artisans in Montegranaro, Marche, who pass down their knowledge from generation to generation. The result is quality shoes, such as perfectly fitting, timeless loafers, designed not only to last but to be a must-have for any occasion. From suede versions in earthy tones, with the right mix of elegance and ease, to the rounded Trinidad model made of calfskin and Oxygen fabric, the brand based in Milan always stands out for its contemporary interpretation of a classic, refined aesthetic, far from excessive extravagance.

Doucal's

In 1968, Mario Giannini opened Ducale, a craft workshop for shoe production in the arts and trades. The business quickly grew into a company by 1973, and the name was anglicized to Doucal's, a tribute to the style and quality of English-made shoes. Since then, Doucal's has continued to combine British looks with Italian fit, staying true to beauty, softness, and lightness, but without forgetting comfort. That’s why every shoe, from sophisticated and timeless loafers to sneakers, is made with kindness, as the brand emphasizes, and is equipped with a layer of memory foam insole. This feature ensures great freshness, fit, and antibacterial action, essential if, as the versatility of loafers suggests, the same pair of shoes is worn for many hours and on any occasion.

Grenson

The history of Grenson dates back to 1866. At that time, William Green made his shoes in a loft above the Corn Merchants in Rushden, Northamptonshire. Today, his products are among the most loved in the world, worn by celebrities like Emma Corrin and Keanu Reeves, admired for their craftsmanship, longevity, and unmistakable style. Each shoe is made using the British Goodyear Welted technique, a process by which the upper is attached to the sole, taking a long time (up to 8 weeks) and being costly to produce, but the result is a very durable shoe that lasts for years. Grenson's trademark? The triple welt, a seam triple-stitched between the sole and the shoe’s body. Among the most interesting offerings are loafers, from the classic Fleur model to Yasmin, with its strap featuring triple buckles and stitching. The Grenda loafers created in collaboration with Emilia Wickstead are super cool. Featured in the designer's FW24 collection, they are inspired by the typical fashion of the Teddy Boys and Girls.

HEREU

HEREU is synonymous with Mediterranean style and coolness. Founded in 2014 by José Luis Bartolomé and Albert Escribano, the brand takes its name from the Catalan word meaning "heir." True to this definition, it entrusts the production of its items to a network of local, family-run producers who pass down their know-how from generation to generation. HEREU's shoes, bags, and small leather goods stand out for their quality and craftsmanship, as well as for their minimalist silhouettes that resemble modernist works of art. All this is done while never abandoning Mediterranean sensitivity and aesthetics, which go beyond traditional techniques by blending colors, shapes, and designs. For example, loafers and fisherman sandals are inspired by traditional Spanish workwear, while the bags are contemporary reinterpretations of woven baskets and canvas sacks. Despite these influences, the Spanish brand’s creations are extremely contemporary, almost futuristic.

Bougeotte

Bougeotte creates footwear for modern flâneurs, time travelers who traverse eras, worlds, and cultures, enjoying each moment’s beauty with a certain extremely chic indolence. This vision translates into loafers that stand out for the quality of the finest materials and Italian craftsmanship, for their refinement, and for their originality. The Milanese brand offers a wide range of models, differentiated by silhouette, materials, colors, and patterns. You can choose from suede loafers with floral embroidery, lizard skin, pastel-hued tweed, vichy prints, quilted leather, or metallic finishes.

21.23

Chiara Bindoni was only 23 years old when she had to take the reins of the family business, but she succeeded with great results and found the courage to launch 21.23, her footwear brand. Mules, slingbacks, boots, but especially loafers, all have a touch of originality—a twist that makes every outfit special. The Lolita collection is particularly noteworthy. It’s hard to choose between the flat and heeled models, the crocodile version or the one with calfskin uppers, the cherry red color or the gold and silver tones. Which one do you prefer?

CEDOUBLÉ

"C'est CEDOUBLÉ, your brand for sophisticated, non-seasonal shoes, bags, and accessories. Fashionable yet always 100% wearable." This is how the Germany-based brand introduces itself on its official website, previewing its concept. Christina and Celina, the founders, don’t consider shoes merely an accessory, but rather an integral part of fashion and every outfit. And it shows. Just browse through the images of their collections to fall in love with their models, thanks to the sophisticated design, detached from ephemeral trends, and the quality of the footwear. The plus? Extremely detailed descriptions on the website, which help you make an informed purchase and even include style suggestions. Our favorite model is Maggy Monaco. Do you prefer it in lavender, cream, cyber purple, matcha green, buttercup patent, moss patent, or classic black?

Officine Creative

Since its launch in the 1990s in Italy, Officine Creative has sought to stand out from the offerings on the market by taking a new and unexplored path, following lateral thinking. The result is a series of shoes distinguished by sophisticated elegance, timeless beauty, and impeccable craftsmanship, but also by a certain contemporary aesthetic sensitivity, perfect for street looks. Some examples? Blair, ultra-soft and lightweight, with a rounded smoothed toe, a front strap, and a flat sole with a hint of a heel. Calixte 020, which combines the elegance of a formal shoe with the comfort of a natural rubber sole, made of soft leather. And what about Ethel 001, which rests on a comfortable 65 mm heel? The only question is: to wear these loafers with or without socks?

Sebago

Sebago is an icon of maritime lifestyle, but also one of the first names that comes to mind when talking about loafers. Its history spans more than seventy years, beginning in 1946 in the city of Scarborough, Maine, when three friends (Daniel J. Wellehan Sr., William Beaudoin, and Joseph Cordeau) founded the company. That same year, the first hand-sewn loafer, following indigenous tradition, was born, and it remains one of the brand’s best sellers today. Soon after, all of the brand’s creations became must-haves, items that simply by being worn add a touch of class to any outfit. However, be aware that loafers and boat shoes aren’t just for the old-money aesthetic; they’re the perfect accessory for any style. This is confirmed by the brand-new Sebago x forte_forte collaboration, a reinterpretation of the iconic penny loafer born from the meeting between Giada Forte and the American brand.