The 13 best loafers by Scandinavian brands to buy now

Loafers first emerged in the 1930s, as the dress shoe's more relaxed sibling made for “loafing around”. The slip in style has a rich sartorial history and some surprising Scandinavian roots with the Penny Loafer allegedly inspired by the light-weight footwear of Norwegian farmers. A certified staple for the preppy posse of the 1990s and early aughts, subscribing to the academia aesthetic, the classic shoe became synonymous with a certain refinement.

Arguably, loafers never go out of style. A timeless classic in our capsule wardrobes, they've cemented their spot on the list of must-have staples just like the black pump or the white sneaker. With that said, the undervalued wardrobe hero has ebbed and flowed in trendiness.

Today, however, with celebrities and style mavens alike – from Hailey Bieber to Pernille Teisbaek – embracing the loafer in the daily rotation of their shoe-drobes, its popularity is undeniable. Seen on the spring/summer runways of Margaret Howell, Marni and Armani – not to mention the ever popular Gucci, Chanel and Prada – the style is a definitely a trend for this season and the season to come.

Today, Nordic cult brands are turning the classic loafer on its head. Just think of Ganni's sparkly embellishments, seen on the Scandi style set season after season. Or why not focus on the square-toed style by the ever-popular Acne Studios, or the chunky lug-sole silhouette of Flattered?

Below, we've gathered the best loafers by Scandi brands to buy now.

Swedish brand Flattered manages to toe the line between classic cuts with modern detailing. Handmade in Spain, their Stella loafers are crafted from chrome-free leather. The gold-toned statement metal hardware elevates the chunky lug-soled silhouette, resulting in a timeless pair to wear everywhere. If you are in between sizes choose the smaller size as this shoe leans on the larger side.

You can't curate a list of loafers without including Ganni. The brand has built a cult-footwear following, worshipping its puddle-proofed rain boots and strappy statement sandals. But, perching atop the shoe throne are Ganni's loafers. Although the brand has a myriad of loafer styles, their classic crystal embellished pair set on a square heel is undeniably a wardrobe hero whether OOO or office bound.

Designed with smooth black leather, these loafers feature a square toe, hand stitching and a stacked leather heel. Paired with blue jeans, a white tank top and with a knit sweater thrown over the shoulders we find ourselves dressed for any and all occasions.

Not for the faint of fashion heart, Cecilie Bahnsen's collaboration with Spanish footwear brand Hereu Raiguer is perfect when making a sartorial statement. A slingback model, it may be more fit for summer styling but paired with the Danish designer's signature frilly socks we see ourselves sporting them year round.

A modern take on the classic leather loafer, the square-toe and stacked-heel style of Vagabond's version oozes contemporary flair. Minimalist in its silhouette and sitting somewhere between cognac and chocolate, opting for a brown leather pair is an on-trend option.

ATP Atelier's Manduria loafers are a practical addition to your everyday wardrobe. Paired back and with contrast stitching, the sleek lines is contrasted with a chunky sole. Its leather can be perceived as rather stiff in the beginning but will soften after a few strolls. Make sure to properly put on the shoes with a shoehorn to prolong the lifespan and maintain the shape of the product.

A contemporary block heel and sharp square toe allows the construction of Acne Studios loafers to take the focus. A modified and modern silhouette and made from calf leather, the square-toe style showcases the brand's inimitable off-duty aesthetic.

The 'Rio’ tassel loafer is Eytys take on a modern classic, hand stitched from polished full-grain leather in a moccasin construction. The angular toe is framed with oversized tassels, a shiny architectural heel and metal detailing. Pair with slouchy suiting and an oversized tote for an effortless ensemble.

Totême's collections are defined by meticulous craftsmanship and a minimal aesthetic that's timeless in its appeal. A style you'll wear for years to come, these loafers are made from supple leather and have light cushioning for comfort. Slip yours on with tailoring for day-to-night mid-week dressing or pair with denim for weekend adventures.

Slightly chunky but undeniably smart, Arket's penny loafers are carefully crafted from leather that has undergone a chrome-free tanning process. An updated classic in slip-on style, it features stitched details and a leather-stacked heel.

Made from PETA-Approved Vegan faux leather, these chunky platform loafers with a croc-embossed print in a crisp white colour way is a spring-time mood booster. Putting us in a good spirit, we see ourselves lugging about in these lug-soles wearing a swathing summer dress.

With a high-shine finish, H&M's patent leather loafers and modern chunky sole sets us up for a sartorial smash. Sported with wide-slung trousers, a simple leather jacket and a white T-shirt we're ready for a sunny city hike.

Sleek in silhouette, & Other Stories' equestrian inspired style is an elevated timeless staple. Oozing of old-school sartorial suave, the horse-bit detailing and barely-there sole is an elegant take on the loafer.

Toeing the line between masculine and feminine, subversive and sensible, loafers have a grounding effect on whatever ensemble you pair them with. The shape-shifting shoes are worn just as well alongside jeans and knits as with silk skirts and midi dresses. Worn with tapered tailored trousers and an oversized white shirt is the dress-code for Copencore, while the footwear trend has equal acclaim with more playful pairings. The style is transseasonal and transitional, so much so that we are officially declaring it the most popular shoe of 2022.

At one point in time, even the hint of a sock peeking above your shoe was frowned upon. Today, however, socks and hosiery has become a style tool frequently used by the Scandinavian sartorial savants. A chunky lug-sole paired with white tube socks are quintessentially preppy, as proposed by supermodel Elsa Hosk, while a lace and loafer pairing oozes effortless feminine flair.