You can get through summer with a rotation of tees, some linen, and a bottle opener. But if there’s one thing that deserves a permanent place by the door, it’s a decent pair of loafers. The kind of shoes you don’t have to think about. Just slip on, look sharp, and walk out.
And whilst it’s not summer here in Australia, the rest of the world is gearing up for the warmer weather, and from the Amalfi Coast to the south of France, it’s loafer season. Whether you’re dressing up for long lunches or drifting through airports, loafers are the quiet MVP of a warm-weather wardrobe. No laces and no problem going from shorts to suiting.
Here are our picks for the six best mens loafers worth slipping into this summer.
Country Road Casual Loafers
AUD $179
These are the kind of loafers that live in the front hallway and get worn until they fall apart (in the best way). Country Road nailed the relaxed summer loafer here: soft suede, tonal stitching, and enough structure to pair with everything from tailored shorts to loose trousers. They’re not overly fancy and are ideal for Sunday markets or café runs, with a price tag that doesn’t make you squirm.
Church’s ‘Heswall’ Soft Suede Loafers
AUD $1,850
Hand-cut in Northampton and built like a Savile Row jacket, these loafers from Church’s are perfectly refined. The suede is butter-soft, the split toe adds structure, and the gimped tongue nods to traditional English shoemaking. If you’re willing to spill a bit more on quality, these are the perfect addition to cream trousers and a navy polo.
Ralph Lauren Bolden Calf-Suede Penny Loafer
AUD $1,699
This is Ralph Lauren doing what Ralph does best, quiet Americana with a European lean. The suede is rich and the penny slot detail gives the right amount of prep. Garden parties, classic cars, linen shirts, all valid reasons to sport this loafer.
Crockett & Jones ‘Sydney’ Dark Brown Burnished Calf
AUD $1,220
These sit closer to the formal end, but that doesn’t mean you can’t wear them with light chinos or a breezy shirt. The Sydney loafers combine English discipline with Italian nonchalance. Built in Northampton, naturally, and finished in a deep, burnished brown, they look best under a well-cut suit.
Loro Piana ‘Summer Walk’ Suede Loafer
AUD $1,550
The Summer Walk loafer is Loro Piana’s calling card. The sole is soft and rubbery, the suede is the kind of thing you’d hesitate to wear in the rain, and the silhouette somehow manages to be sporty and tailored at once. You don’t need them, strictly speaking, but once you try them, good luck ever going back.
Charles Tyrwhitt Penny Loafers – Dark Tan
AUD $170
Proof you don’t need to empty your bank account to look sorted. Charles Tyrwhitt’s loafers punch way above their weight. Dark tan leather, leather sole, simple penny strap, job done. Wear them with tailored shorts and no-show socks, or throw them under cuffed jeans.