The origin of loafers are multiple and varied, but one common account is that they date back to the 1930s in Norway where shoemakers created outdoor-friendly “Aurland shoes” that became popular among locals. Easily slipped on and made of leather, the sturdy moccasin-inspired design became the footwear of choice for fishermen. Travelers in Europe began noticing the comfortable footwear of fishermen in Norway. Companies in the US caught on too and began making leather loafers: in 1943, G.H Bass (founded by George Henry Bass) released shoes similar to those worn by Norwegian fishermen, and called them “Weejuns.”
To set Weejuns apart from others, the leather shoes were designed with a horizontal strap with a cut-out. The rise of loafer shoes throughout the 40s and 60s – music icons like Elvis were fans – led to them become commonly worn by men and women. Leather loafers were the go-to shoes on school campuses, and many students inserted pennies in the little cut-out, hence the term “penny loafers.”
Today, loafers have evolved much sartorially, as evident from the popularity of elegant tassel loafers to the more sassy and edgy platform patent and chunky block-heel styles. Chunky loafers in particular remain a classic wardrobe staple for many people thanks to the shoes’ versatility, contemporary panache and unique aesthetic.
Chunky loafers are loafers with thick, chunky soles as heels or platforms. All kinds of materials are used to make the chunky shoes, such as patent leather, genuine leather, faux leather, suede, rubber and synthetic material. Loafers are comfortable to wear, and they can be designed in different shoe silhouettes. Chunky loafers aren’t season-specific so they can be worn any time of the year. There are several styles of loafers, including chunky heel loafers and platform loafers.
Chunky Heel Loafer
The quintessential chunky heel loafer offers plenty of sophistication and classic appeal with its slightly tapered shoe profile at the front combined with the extra heel at the back. This footwear goes well with both casual outfits and workwear. While the classic brown and black loafer designs remain the most popular, chunky heel loafers are also available in bright colors that can add different moods to a look. Both slip-on and lace-up chunky heel loafers are in high demand, and many are made with additional embellishments, such as metal chain, buckle or faux pearl detail across the shoe vamp.
Platform Loafer
The platform loafer style caters to people who want a bulkier look along with extra inches to their height. The high platform of the sole may come in matching or contrasting color to the rest of the shoe’s body. The many different chunky platform styles available include the thick lug sole design with detailed indentations underneath or on the sides for an extra chunky silhouette and greater footwear comfort and stability. The platform loafer design can also be combined with wedge or chunky block heels for different shoe aesthetics. Like the chunky-heel style, the platform loafer can come with additional embellishments to channel different aesthetics.
Chunky loafers continue to trend as many celebrities have been spotted loafing around in these shoes. Katie Holmes, Zoe Kravitz and Olivia Palermo are celebrities who regularly rock chunky loafers, adding to the popularity of the elegantly designed footwear.
Chunky loafers are clearly staples of Holmes’ winter and fall fashion wardrobe, as the actress was regularly seen in New York in classic black loafers teamed with casual-cool luxury outfits. Hailey Bieber is another fan of statement loafers, as the model has been spotted wearing chunky loafers in a shiny patent finish, along with a revealing LBD. Model Bella Hadid has been seen numerous times in shoes from Dr. Martens, including buckled smooth leather loafers with distinctive stitch-details.
Prada and Gucci are some of the labels that were at the forefront of popularizing chunky loafers decades ago as elegant statement shoes, thanks to the fashion houses’ more luxurious and sleek twists on the designs. In the 1950s, Gucci’s loafers in refined black leather styles helped make them become acceptable to wear with formal outfits. The brand’s shoes with metal hardware across the vamp (in the shape of a horse’s snaffle) appealed to business professionals such as investment bankers and lawyers, eventually helping the shoes become fashionable status symbols.
With the revival of 90s and early-oughts aesthetics, chunky loafers in thick-sole styles are trending again. Many high-end labels have chunky loafers in their collections, including Proenza Schouler, Stuart Weitzman and Vagabond Shoemakers. Statement chunky loafers, particularly the classic retro styles, continue to be popular.
Loafer chunky shoes aren’t new to the fashion world, so there are countless styles in the market for you to choose a pair that suits your style needs. Opt for brightly colored, velvet versions to amp up a preppy outfit, and platform chunky heel loafers with bow details for a kawaii look. Choose loafers with chunky chain embellishments to add more edge to your gothic or grunge ensemble.
The main appeal of chunky loafers lies in their versatility. These shoes go with almost any look, and designers are constantly updating the designs with modern flair for different aesthetics. One of the best ways to style chunky loafers with outfits Is to simply swap out your sneakers. Instead of wearing your usual kicks with your jeans-and-shirt combo, for instance, subtly elevate the casual look with chunky loafers.
If you don’t know where to start, go for a classic retro loafer style like a penny loafer, arguably the most versatile of all loafers. The penny loafer meshes well with both casual and formal outfits. Team with white ankle socks for an eye-catching impression. When the penny loafer is combined with trendy pieces − like an ultra-short mini skirt, crop top or statement jacket − the overall look can have a modern feel that stylishly juxtaposes classic and fashion-forward aesthetics. If you’re wearing chunky loafers with pants, make sure the hems sit just above the ankles to flaunt the shoes.
When choosing your loafers, the shoe embellishments can add visual interest to your look. If you’re putting together a formal outfit, slip on chunky loafers designed with elegant touches such as suede or velvet material, and details across the vamp like horsebit buckle or faux pearl accents that amplify the outfit’s aesthetics.
Below are more tips for wearing your loafers.
Go sockless
While it’s okay to rock your loafers with socks, they aren’t always necessary. The sockless look lets you show off your ankle, and it allows dramatic details on the loafers, like chunky chain embellishments, to stand out more.
Play with colors and finishes
Let your loafers’ colors and finishes speak for you. If you’re feeling bold, go for loafers in bright colors such as red or army green. Make sure the shoes’ colors coordinate with the rest of your ensemble. While loafer shoes in black are timeless, try designs in other finishes for maximum impact, such as chunky heel loafers in a shiny patent finish or croc-embossed style for more drama. Alternatively, go for platform loafers with soles in a different color from the rest of the shoe body for eye-catching appeal.
It’s all about balance
Depending on the style, chunky loafers may give off tough and edgy vibes. Balance them out by teaming with more feminine pieces, like a floral dress or frilly tiered midi skirt. The shoes can become great counterpoints to feminine items for cool contrasting looks.
Rock faux leather
Create luxe fall fashion looks with your chunky loafers. Class up your casual outfit with faux leather tassel loafers, which are beloved go-tos for preppy and elegant fashion looks. Faux leather chunky loafers with suits are also perfect combos. For modern look, rock chunky loafers with a light-colored suit in a loose-fit style and leave the collared shirt untucked. Now you can wear chunky loafers with your outfits in instantly fashionably ways!
