Hi again — this time writing from Los Angeles! I’m here for a quick factory visit and a fun photoshoot, and thanks to the (admittedly mediocre) airplane wi-fi, I was able to do a deeper dive into the world of loafers. I also spent some time going through the feedback and requests many of you shared after the first round-up. As always, I’m so grateful when readers highlight brands I may have missed or suggest what to cover next — it really shapes what I share here.
While I make most of my content open to everyone, I wanted to make this newsletter a special edition just for paid subscribers. (sending a big thank you!!!)
One reader introduced me to the Australian brand Essēn, which turned out to be a treasure trove of incredible shoes, but also for bags and jewelry. I also heard from many of you asking for more accessibly priced options, so in this edition I’ve included some great alternatives to the more aspirational pairs — the ones that linger in our minds, but might not yet make it into our carts.
In between all that, I made a quick stop at Dover Street Market for a hit of retail therapy and inspiration. Photos online never compare to the real thing — seeing, touching, and trying pieces on in person always sparks new ideas, and I’ve shared a few snapshots here.
Since the first edition, a few more SS26 runway shows have taken place, and I pulled some screenshots for styling inspiration. What I love about loafers is how timeless they are: chances are you already have something similar in your closet, and it’s just about pairing and styling them in ways that feel fresh again. I also wanted to include some great second-hand finds in the mix.
Loafer Season is Here
I’ve been deep in summer-city-shoe mode—ballet flats galore—but now it feels right to pivot into the classic loafer. My earliest memory of them goes all the way back to age seven, when I moved on from my obsession with glittery jelly shoes to begging my mom for a pair of
Clearly I can’t get enough of these fringed and studded loafers. It all started when I saw these Bally loafers at Dover Street, I couldn’t look away. I do love studded footwear, I have now amassed 3 pairs and recalled these old Celine loafers from the Phoebe Philo era. Ahh the blue suede!! And the pony hair… sigh.
Okay, now for the main event. Below I’ve rounded up some very good alternatives to the reader favorite: the Jamie Haller loafer, as well as some nice tasseled loafers, sleek modern silhouettes and more…
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