A style conundrum that sums up January? The balancing act between feeling comfortable and looking smart (best foot forward, and all that). And in fact, therein lies the answer. Because the influencer set has found a way to tick off both via footwear that’s flat, functional and perfect for styling with a chunky sock if it’s freezing. Enter, the suede loafer.
In fact, this is not just any suede loafer. This is an M&S - don't say you didn't see that coming! - suede loafer. Yes, the best news is that our high street has the best options in the business. M&S’s version, for example, looks way more expensive than its £55 price tag, proving so popular with online customers that it’s already sold out in chocolate. Arket’s slimline pair is slightly more expensive at £189, but is also the sleekest we’ve seen. Dune, meanwhile, has distinctive detailing on its upper that will up the easy-yet-elegant factor even further.
It’s a shoe that’s been in the spotlight for a few seasons now. We’ve already witnessed the return of moccasins thanks to Miu Miu, as well as the unlikely trend for laced boat shoes that swept Instagram (whether or not their wearers had sea legs). Now, it’s a minimal bells-and-whistles style made of butter-soft suede that is emerging as the one to own in 2025.
Lucy Williams wore hers over the holidays with everything from statement red socks to her trusty waxed Barbour, using them to ground outfits of straight-leg jeans and cashmere jumpers (i.e. the only things you feel like wearing in the bleak midwinter).
Lean into their naturally preppy aesthetic with shirts, blazers and pleated skirts, adding a pair of red tights or a statement ankle sock that bridges the gap between your jeans and ankle bone. January? Suddenly, it doesn’t seem so bad.
Shop: The Best Suede Loafers
www.marksandspencer.com
www.arket.com
www.meandem.com
www.dunelondon.com
Natalie Hammond is Grazia’s Senior Fashion News Editor. She loves winter, hates summer and can often be found writing about the weather (and what on earth to wear).