Wearing Penny Loafer With Chinos

[Fotios]

Hi, I am new to the world of classic men's wear, and am in the process of acquiring some footwear. I recently purchased a pair of burgundy penny loafers from Spier and Mackay, which I wear with a suit. I would like to get some more use out of these in casual wear, if I can. I believe they are calf leather.

Would these shoes be appropriate to wear in a more casual outfit, such as chinos and an oxford cloth button down shirt? I did some research, and couldn't seem to get a clear answer. It does seem that these loafers are more formal than something with contrast stitching, a more casual material (ie. suede), or a less sleek toe shape.

Would appreciate any opinions/advice on this - thanks!

 

[rjc149]

Would these shoes be appropriate to wear in a more casual outfit, such as chinos and an oxford cloth button down shirt?

Most certainly.

Much more appropriate than with a suit.

 

[GrayBart]

Normally I would NOT combine penny loafers with a suit.

Depending on the brand, I MIGHT combine tassel loafers with a suit.

I have paired the Allen Edmonds Grayson with suits many times.

In contrast, I would not wear any of the G.H. Bass tassel loafers with a suit.

They are delightful products; I just wouldn't wear them with a suit.

 

[Duke Santos]

Agree with the above. They'd actually be more appropriate with casual clothing than with a suit. Your suit needs some oxfords though, in this day and age, a particularly elegant derby would work.

 

[Fotios]

Thanks all for the helpful replies. Good to know that these might not be such a good match with a suit.

I plan to wear them with

1. chinos + oxford cloth button down shirt
2. mid-grey flannel trousers + wool sweater

Any thoughts on wearing these loafers with dark/un-distressed raw selvedge denim jeans (again, with an ocbd, or maybe a wool sweater)? Any additional suggestions for outfits to wear with these?

 

[rjc149]

Brown loafers are pretty versatile for any casual or less-than-formal outfit. As stated above, some loafer styles are dressier than others. The loafers you have are on the dressier side, which I personally think would clash with denim (I don't believe jeans should be dressed up) so I would stick to chinos or slacks with that pair.