Often when we track a trend, we can point to a number of runways or celebrity style moments that stack up until there’s no denying it—a certain item, color, or bag shape is suddenly in the zeitgeist. But every once and awhile a single collection is so impactful you don’t need any further evidence. Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2024 show, the brainchild of Miuccia Prada and Raf Simons, bestowed upon us boat shoes as high fashion talisman. They ushered in an affinity for Dad-shoes of all sorts—from driving loafers to suede moccasins—that all share a similar prep moment that’s perfect from now until early fall. Maybe even a bit later if you embrace wool ankle socks.
Vogue’s Favorite Dad Shoes:
With its perfectly lived-in patina and subtle logo embossing, the boat shoe appeals to the heritage aesthetic that’s been trending on social media in recent months, while adding a fresh dose of sportiness to the mix. (The energy it brings is Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy embarking upon Hyannis Port with her Boat and Tote, melded with the first day of school at Eton.)
Whether you’re hitting the nearest boardwalk to finish off the summer in style, getting ready for a casual Friday at the office, or venturing off to a museum on a Sunday, there’s a loafer-centric outfit that’s ideal for the occasion. Shop six looks that spotlight the season’s hero shoes, below.
Tailored Whites
Let’s consider this a look for a creative office—or a Saturday about town. To-the-point tailoring isn’t for suits-only, embrace the structured life in coordinating Bermuda shorts and sleeveless jacket by Wardrobe.NYC, paired with The Row’s lightened up penny loafers and a perfectly lovely tote by Manu Atelier. Don’t forget to bring along your Celine gold and green sunnies for all the bright days ahead.
Double Denim
The trusty Texas tux look works in the most delightfully unexpected ways—namely on a denim Khaite midi skirt and boxy short-sleeve button-down. We love this mixed with Isabel Marant’s pony-hair loafers, and a Loewe raffia bag to prove you haven’t abandoned summer just yet. Add in a dose of color with Bottega Veneta Fin earrings and a beaded anklet by Adina Reyter. Come fall, layer a turtleneck under the top and be on your way.
Prep in Your Step
Nothing quite complements suede moccasins like a prep-school adjacent ensemble. Start from the bottom up with a pair from Tod’s and Falke cotton ankle socks. Lean further into the idea in a Thom Browne navy raffia skirt paired with a Miu Miu white buttondown, and toss a cashmere cardi by Naadam over your shoulders for when the weather dips. A brown leather Dragon Diffusion tote is the perfect finishing touch.
Going Gray
St. Agni’s gray tunic and pants are a beautiful duo when worn together, but also work wonderfully on their own. When you do wear the co-ord, why not try it with Dad-approved Bally driving loafers, a sculptural necklace by Ayllon, a Bottega Veneta tote, and cat-eye Gucci shades? The necklace and sunnies bring a sculptural element to the otherwise more serious minimalism.
Modern Boho
A Cos maxi bubble skirt, ivory Toteme blazer, Jenni Kayne raffia hat, and bold persimmon Lizzie Fortunato ridge cuff are giving art professor off-duty. Keep it all casual with black Loro Piana moccasins and extra luxe with an oversized Margaux clutch by The Row. The overall effect is sleek but visually intriguing.
Back to Basics
Essentials don’t ever have to be boring. A white tee gets the Loewe treatment, a Favorite Daughter trench goes extra-long, and a black pleated Acne Studios mini is asymmetrical and belted. It all adds up to simplicity with interest to spare. Saint Laurent’s leather loafers continue the theme with soft ruching detail, Dior’s aviators are wonderfully oversized, and Cos’s light-as-air nylon crossbody bag replaces your go-to leather tote.
