Before we get stuck into the 8 different types of loafers for men, you might want to work out how to wear them. Loafers are made of smooth materials like suede and leather. They’re typically available in a number of darker colours that will happily blend with a wide range of outfits and styles. Indeed, the guy to your left might be rocking penny loafers with shorts and a t-shirt while the guy on your right might be wearing tassel loafers with a linen suit. That said, here are some general guidelines on how to wear loafers:

The debate over loafers and socks or loafers and no socks is theoretically still ongoing, but there’s never been a better time to choose for yourself. In other words, wearing loafers with no socks is very popular right now, and loafers with socks never really went out of style. What’s important is that you retain a tight, tailored fit and remember that loafers do retain a slightly formal edge. If you choose to go with socks, make sure the sock patterns or colours match your outfit. Loafer socks for men have become a sock genre on their own so be sure to look into that if socks are your thing.

Comfortable, traditional and classic, the penny loafer delivers straightforward elegance with enduring ease. This stylish slip-on has origins in the 30s but didn’t really take off until the 50s. Some folks say that children used to insert pennies into the slot, hence the name. Other folks say that’s just urban legend. The penny loafer is frequently offered in dark colours like espresso, burgundy, black and brown, the penny loafer remains a versatile, adaptive and downright handsome shoe.

The horsebit loafer distinguishes itself by way of a golden metal strap shaped like a horse’s snaffle across the top. Popularised by Gucci, they also changed the colour from brown to black and tinkered with the lining. The result of Gucci’s tampering was an explosion in popularity. The Gucci men’s loafers became a mainstay among American power players. Nowadays, the horsebit loafer gives off a somewhat retro, but nevertheless sophisticated vibe.

Rumours abound when it comes to the origins of the tassel loafer. Most people believe the shoe was created when an actor named Paul Lukas brought a pair of Oxfords with tassels on them to a New York shoemaker, asking them to craft something similar. Let down by the result, Lukas then brought his request to the Alden Shoe Company, who combined the tassel with a slip-on loafer. Voila! The tassel loafer was born. Background accuracy aside, there’s no disputing that the shoe was a massive success, and remains one to this day. Available in materials like suede or leather, this stylish staple exudes a European sensibility and delivers classic sartorial flair.

What was once an old man shoe has now returned as a sartorial requirement for every stylish man’s wardrobe. Often thought of like the odd one out amongst casual fans, the kiltie or kilt loafer is really the one to have for the loafer connoisseur. Just because your grandfather wore them doesn’t mean they’re anything but the full embodiment of what a loafer should be. The tassels offer a practical addition, protecting the instep and keeping the laces from snagging. Pair the kilties with some fitted trousers or suit pants and a nice coat for the fall.

The driving loafer adds a level of functional grip with its defining pebbled outsole. Racecar driver or not, this loafer is a welcome addition to every mans wardrobe with its casual comfort and summer style. If you’re looking for a pair of loafers to leave by the front door for when you need to duck out to the shops, these are the ones. The driving shoe is just as at home relaxing by the beach as it is providing the extra grip you need while carving up the countryside in your Porsche.

The slipper is the do it all loafer that best resembles the true origins of this footwear species. This loafer forgets all the jazz and gets down to business with a smooth upper devoid of stitching and kilted flamboyance. Depending on the choice of material you’ll be able to pair these with a suit or pair of shorts. When opting for a more casual style, avoid leather and opt for a lighter coloured suede material. If the plan is to pull these out with a suit, only go for black and choose either leather or patent material for extra style.

The prep boy kings, it wasn’t until Prada put these on the runway did anyone really start wearing them. First of all, if you’re over the age of 30, forget the boat shoe altogether. If you’ve just graduated high school these might catch your eye, and if you can’t get them out of your head, just don’t wear them with anything but linen. Do not wear socks, and stick with the classics like RM Williams, Sperrys, or Timberlands.

Sitting at the bottom of the styling barrel espadrille. This loafer for men is a rope-soled flat that is best for casual wear. There’s a very small list of shoes that shouldn’t be touched by stylish men, and the espadrille teeters on that fine line between acceptable and awkward. If you really want to try and pull these out you’re best picking up a pair from the likes of Saint Laurent (as pictured) or an equivalent designer brand. Add a pair of khaki shorts and a plain coloured button-up and you’re set for a day out on the boat.