The Slender Loafer: Fall's Must-Have (Katie Holmes' Pick)

Oct 16, 2024

Coco Chanel once declared, ‘Fashion is a constant revival.’ Years later, the resurgence of a somewhat passé shoe forcefully coincides with her statement: the slender loafer, long ridiculed and regarded as an old-timer’s footwear, storms back into the fashion spotlight, endorsed by savvy fashionistas, with Katie Holmes leading the charge (quite literally from the feet up).

Observation: it’s enough to reelect it as the fall 2024 shoe trend and enshrine it in our collection of must-have shoes. Here’s an exploration of this stylish and not overly formal fashion revival: The slender loafer: this iconic shoe, long considered too staid, makes its comeback.

While the loafer is today’s epitome of chic, conservative footwear, its origins are quite the opposite: despite being a symbol of laid-back elegance, it originated from the traditions of the indigenous peoples of North America, where it was crafted from soft leather for comfort and mobility.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that the loafer crossed the Atlantic and gained popularity in Europe, especially in the 1950s, following its adoption into the American “preppy” style. Since then, it has evolved from traditional footwear to an essential fashion piece. In 2024, propelled by the “grandpacore” trend craze, loafers come in a range of styles, from classic leather to more contemporary versions, all while remaining synonymous with comfort and elegance.

However, this fall, a historic version of the shoe makes its comeback after several years in storage in favor of bolder, chunkier alternatives. Consequently, it shakes off its dusty reputation and climbs the heights of cool: the slender loafer.

Gucci championed it in the 2010s, and now, it enjoys a fashion revival worthy of the name, gracing the feet of one of our generation’s most bankable fashion icons: actress Katie Holmes.

To wear the slender loafer with style this fall, we eagerly replicate or draw inspiration from Katie Holmes’ looks. Similarly, we focus on an old-school, colorful model. This choice effectively contrasts with the stiff or austere side of the slender loafer.

As for styling, we pair this iconic shoe confidently with the rest of our seasonal wardrobe. To break its rigidity without losing an ounce of elegance, nothing beats combining it with more feminine and modern pieces, like a silk skirt or a wide-leg jeans and faux fur look.

**Cette Chaussure de Mamie Sera Partout Cet Automne (Et Katie Holmes Ne Jure Que Par Elle)**

This article first appeared on grazia.fr – Author: Salomé Chognon

topics: fashion, shoes, loafers, Katie Holmes