A Step Above: Taylor Swift Returns To Her Faithful Loafer
Taylor Swift is renowned for her ever-evolving sense of style, continuously keeping fans guessing as to what her next fashion era may bring. But this week, the songstress took a stylish stroll down memory lane, returning to one of her most beloved footwear silhouettes: the heeled loafer.
Stepping out in New York’s artsy Lower East Side neighborhood alongside friend and rising star Gracie Abrams, the 33-year-old opted for a sleek pair of python-print loafers by Parisian brand Sézane. With their chunky block heel and preppy polish, the ‘Jessie’ style shoes were a nostalgic nod to the heeled lace-ups Swift favored in the early 2010s.
Indeed, T-Swift’s footwear choices throughout her country crossover days were defined by loafers and oxfords alike. Who could forget her parade of patent brogues and Two Lips ‘Mary Jane’ shoes, so often worn alongside thigh-high socks and pleated minis? Swift’s heavy rotation of preppy kicks helped cement her signature schoolgirl-chic aesthetic.
Now over a decade later, the singer’s style has blossomed into something far more polished and refined. Though she still appreciates a Peter Pan collar from time to time, Swift has fully embraced high fashion and frequently steps out in runway looks from brands like Oscar de la Renta, Stella McCartney and Christian Dior.
However, Swift’s latest return to loafers proves her longstanding devotion to the practical kicks. It seems old habits die hard, even for one of music’s most fashion-forward stars.
Beyond their nostalgic appeal, Swift’s Sézane pair prove loafers’ timeless versatility. She grounded the shoes’ preppiness with sheer black tights and a navy double-breasted blazer from Gant. Meanwhile, a breezy white pleated mini dress from Zimmermann added a touch of maritime charm.
Swift completed her early autumn ensemble with a rich green shoulder bag from Saint Laurent’s ‘Cassandra’ collection. The glossy python textures proved harmonious, while a swipe of the musician’s signature red lipstick provided the perfect final flourish.
Much like Swift, fashion has cyclically returned to loafers season after season. Today, luxe labels like Prada and Gucci have revived classic penny loafers and slipper-style shoes, reimagining them with embellished hardware and vibrant patterns. Swift’s own foray into modern loafers follows the lead of style icons like Princess Diana, who famously paired her Gucci horsebit loafers with bike shorts back in the 90s.
Of course, Swift is hardly the only celebrity to revisit loafers of late. Olivia Rodrigo, Sydney Sweeney, and Bella Hadid have all been spotted in various incarnations, from leather penny pairs to maximalist platforms. Clearly the time has come for this versatile style to step back into the spotlight.
Will 2023 mark the long-awaited loafer renaissance? Swift certainly makes a compelling case. Her smart Sézane pair proves the shoes’ enduring preppy panache, while still feeling wholly fresh. So take a note from Taylor’s time-honored look – sometimes revisiting fashion’s greatest hits is the chicest move of all.
