These are the shoes we’re slipping on this spring
Spring is upon us, and we've rounded on our favourite pairs of seasonal footwear staples to see you through the warmer months...
Words: Izzie Price
The clocks have gone back an hour, and our boots have gone back into the wardrobe. Spring has officially started, and that can mean only one thing: it’s time to give your shoe rack a spring clean.
Personally, we couldn’t be happier. Our spring and summer shoes have been languishing at the backs of our wardrobes for months, and now we can finally pull them on in all their wonderful versatility. Whether you’re opting for the suave loafer or its dapper yacht-oriented cousin; the casual sneaker, or the debonair driving shoe — spring shoes can deliver the slip-on goods time and time again.
We could wax lyrical about these seasonal treasures all day, but — like the shoes themselves — we’ve opted for practicality instead, and have rounded up a list of the products we’ll be ushering onto our shoe racks this spring. Clear some space in your hallway: you’re going to need it.
Opt for the suave sophistication that only loafers can offer
Loafers unfailingly manage to achieve the impossible. They exude a rakish sophistication that oozes style, success and suavity; but they also suggests an inherent casual air. There’s nothing worse than a ‘try hard’ aesthetic (you wouldn’t want your date to think you’d spent hours agonising over your appearance, would you?); but loafers banish any suggestion of fretful dressing. With their relaxed, effortless charisma, a pair of loafers is the perfect accompaniment to any smart casual ensemble.
Edward Green has made the world your suede-covered oyster with its Piccadilly Unlined penny loafer; with that light sole, it’s perfect for those fast-approaching sunny days. Crockett & Jones has truly delivered the goods with their Seaton loafer; decked out in Dark Oak suede, it’s perfect for both days on the yacht or nights out at Club 55. And Church’s has pulled out all the stops: the Danby is blessed with a lightweight sole, a comprehensive internal lining and the that debonair verve that only tassels can pull off.
If 'casual' is your word of the season, sneakers are your go-to
A relaxed aesthetic can make the shoulders feel ten times lighter. And spring is all about letting loose; in the wardrobe, as much as anywhere else. Sneakers are as casual as footwear comes; but don’t let your assumptions get the better of you. Casual doesn’t have to do away with sophistication altogether — and you can trust us when we say that sneakers can do both.
Tod’s has got that casual sophistication down to a T, with its rich suede sneakers: the leather detailing gives an elegant air, while the rubber sole offers durability in spades. Car Shoe has taken care of all your seasonal spring needs with its white canvas sneaker, which will surely go with virtually any casual ensemble. And Uniform Standard heard the rallying cry for sneakers with an edge: its Series 3 Stone Nubeck puts a fresh new spin on the mid-century German army trainer, with Premium Italian nubeck leather uppers for that extra bit of rakish charm.
Planning a road trip? Opt for a driving shoe
Originally designed to offer maximum grip whilst driving, these stellar shoes are a crucial addition to any gentleman’s spring and summer wardrobe. Their original gripping allure remains — they’ll cling to your feet like a vice — but a firm grip does not signify a lack of comfort. These are some of the most comfortable shoes around; and their stylish aesthetic gives any wearer a notably dapper edge.
Aurélien has got you sorted for any days spent behind the wheel, with its caramel suede slip-ons. With the brand’s iconic rubber-pebble sole and a delicate suede construction, you’ll be the talk of the driving town. Aptly named, in this instance, Car Shoe is at your side with its suede driving shoes, crafted in Italy and equipped with metal eyelets and a tubular construction. And Tod’s is at it again with its Gommino offering; this timeless pair boasts luxurious velvet suede, exposed hand stitching and, of course, the iconic rubber pebble outsoles.
Say a warm welcome to summer with the yacht loafer
Of course, nothing truly greets those welcome rays of sunshine like the iconic yacht loafer: the true paragon of spring and summer footwear. Their sturdy construction makes them the perfect option for scrambling aboard the yacht (needless to say), strolling down the pier or navigating your way over a pebbly beach. And in terms of aesthetics, they truly are the perfect addition to a pair of shorts, or a pair of chinos if the sun’s going down and the rosé’s chilling in its ice bucket.
Aurélien has excelled once again (when does it not?) with its Beige Yacht Loafers; prepare to roll up your chinos, don your favourite linen shirt and settle into your sunny weekend with this stylish staple. Loro Piana continues to exceed our highest expectations with its Summer Walk Moccasin pair; with a water-repellent finish and delicate handmade construction, this pair promises extensive comfort and poolside reliability in spades. And we’re back to Aurélien, but for good reason: the Grey version of its sophisticated yacht loafer will lend an understated, Mediterranean charm to your whole spring (and summer) season.
Looking to pair your spring footwear with the perfect spring ensemble? New & Lingwood’s SS21 collection is here to save spring dressing…
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