The Obtainer - 10/4/23, Wednesday

↦ Fall's Coolest Shoe Is a Bonafide Classic

Wednesday, October 4th Edition

We’re back with the second installment of our fall Back to Basics series. Today, we’re tackling the shoe of the moment, the loafer. A classic slip-on that’s lived many lives, let’s dive into how to find the style that works for you (and then how to break it in).

- Cory Ohlendorf, Editor in Chief ⋯ @coryohlendorf

Backto Basics

Fall’s Coolest Shoe Is a Bonafide Classic

The loafer has never really gone anywhere. Sure, there have been dips here and there, but the leather slip-on has always been a consistently cool shoe—a reliable and essential part of a man's footwear arsenal. But it feels like for Fall 2023, the loafer has never been more in demand. They certainly appeal to guys who are celebrating the return of prep, but they also speak to men who simply want an effortless shoe they can slide into as easily as a slipper. The added bonus? They're comfy as hell and there's not a single piece in your wardrobe that won't be enhanced by the addition of a loafer. Cropped jeans, wide-leg trousers or pleated chinos—they all work. That's the benefit of going with a timeless design.Now, you can find a wide range of styles and leather options by makers from all over the world, from the classic penny loafer to versions embellished with tassels and more modern lug soles. Consider this your soup-to-nuts guide to becoming a “loafer guy” all fall and winter.

The classic

Hand-sewn the old-fashioned way, with a leather stacked outsole and storm welt, but finished with a rubber heel tap and forefoot for improved traction.

1876 Larson Weejun, $295 by G.H. Bass

The Lug Sole

Handmade in Portugal from textured leather and Goodyear-welted Vibram rubber outsole, the brand says they “threw snow tires on a core classic.”

Ellis penny loafer, $395 by Blackstock & Weber

The Tassel

Made in the U.S. and built on Alden's popular Aberdeen last and cut from a soft, snuff suede and finished with a leather Goodyear-welted outsole.

Tassel loafer, $660 by Alden

See our complete guide to the loafer »

The sales and discounts our team is currently watching.

A mix of yarns creates this beautiful mélange color. And it's piqué, which is lightweight and breathable, so it's an easy layering option for fall.

$195 / $97.50by Mr P.

This mid-century style chair already looks more expensive than it is, since it's made from solid wood and soft leather. But now it's 30% off, so you could buy a pair at deep discount for your living room.

$420 / $309.99by West Elm