Sartorial Suggestions: Back 2 the basics: Back 2 the Basics: The Loafer

No, I'm not referring to the stuffy leather shoes with the double tassel & penny insertion point at the toe that were popular from the late '70s to the early '90s.. you can breathe easy now. Those shoes were once the universal sign of preppiness to the utmost and were anything but "relaxed." Not anymore! What's quite interesting about this shoe is that it actually became popular when its style & design was produced by the Spaulding company in the 1930s to look similar to the shoes worn by Norwegian farmers. But loafers have evolved since then and have become the go-to shoe for the stylish, everyday guy who wants style & versatility without all the fuss of a lace-up. Not only have they evolved in terms of once being most appropriate for work to now being staples at events such as outdoor wine tastings, they've stepped out from under the shadows of black & brown leather and have taken on a more sleek look in the boldest textures & color choices. Whether you're a seasoned fashionisto who loves all things daring & dashing or just a regular guy who desires comfort without having to sacrifice style, there's a loafer for you! What makes this shoe so cool is its versatility; it can be paired with slim/skinny jeans for a hipster look or with dress slacks when you're headed to the office on those summer work days.. there's no excuse for not having at least one pair of loafers in your shoe rotation! Stay fly, fellas~

Ryan Gosling always evokes the charm of an old skool hollywood leading man while looking effortlessly chic.. Just be sure to lotion your ankles if you're gonna go sockless like him!

Though his tv persona irritates my very soul, Scott Disick is clearly a naturally stylish guy who pulls off velvet loafers quite well

<~ I, personally, don't recommend this type of loafer where the sole extends up the back of the heel because it gives the look of a house slipper