Here’s the lowdown: Yes, we love heels on you. But we know that sometimes stilts are just not practical. Whether you have a laundry list of to-dos or you’re nursing a bum ankle from hobbling around in your Brian Atwood booties, sometimes there’s nothing more appealing than a low-altitude loafer. They’re casual, cool and the final word in Wasp-y chic (Blane, Sloan and Buffy names optional). While these may not have the obvious va-va voom of a stiletto, we think that that’s exactly what makes them kind of sexy. Like when you wear our button-down shirt. So take it easy with these picks and leave the heights to the professionals–and we don’t mean the ones trawling Sunset late at night, either!
1. BalenciagaThis black, buckled loafer might be reminiscent of the creepers popular with high school punks (or Agyness Deyn), but this luxe loafer is sure to turn heads with its nuts-and-bolts sole and graphic matte black hardware.2. GH Bass & Co.
Ah, the original, all-American brand that brings shoes to J.Crew and other standbys. We’d still put a penny in it. For boy-meets-girl chic, there’s no better choice for days your feet can’t fathom great heights.
3. Jimmy ChooAnimal instincts meet traditional men’s opera slippers in this loafer, which adds major spice to such a simple shape.
4. Pierre Hardy
Go for the gold in this Pierre Hardy driving moc, which takes relaxed to luxe levels. With its rubber sole, you’ll outrun any high-heeled trotter. And, we’d pay to see that!
5. Ralph LaurenFrom its bright blue hue to its nautical slant, this style has the country club look down. Nobody does prep like Ralph. While we’re imagining this with a tennis skirt and a twinset (Hello, Buffy), you can throw it on with jeans for the days you’re skipping the club and you’ll still look like a million bucks.
6. Sperry Top-Sider
The classic boat shoe gets a remix in 2011’s color and soft, easy twill. Jenna Lyons knows how to pick ‘em, and when she grabbed these for J.Crew, they flew off the shelves. Find yours (they come in other colors, too) and you’ll be the envy of prepsters everywhere!
7. Viktor & RolfWhile this design duo is known for more outré options, this whipstitch detailed tassled shoe is something that won’t turn heads in the wrong way. Instead, it will get attention for its simple lines and luxe fabrics.
8. Harold John
For one-of-a-kind kicks, Harold John is the new one to watch. (Read the full story.) These chic, custom-embroidered loafers have graced the feet of Ellen Degeneres and even FTD’s own Michelle Tyree. The embroideries run the gamut from cheeky to cheerful (WTF to your monogram or family crest) and these puppies will bring a smile to your face and keep your dogs from barking!
9. Sergio Rossi
Elvis had his blue suede shoes and now you can grab a pair, too. Slide into these supple suede softies to outdance everyone else on the floor.
