Yes, You Should Wear Loafers with Shorts This Summer

man wearing a short-sleeve green shirt with khaki shorts and black loafers

Curious about how to wear loafers with shorts in a stylish way? Look no further! This men’s style guide from the team at Style Girlfriend will show you different ways to style your loafers with shorts (including socks!) and provide visual examples for inspiration.

When it comes to warm weather outfits, there are probably plenty of shoes you think to wear with shorts before loafers. Sneakers are an obvious option. Sandals, if you’ve had a pedicure. Boat shoes are back, did you hear? And espadrilles are a great choice for a guy on vacation mode. But! If you want to get a little adventurous, let SG HQ convince you to try loafers the next time you’re in “Sky’s out, thighs out” mode.

Outfit ideas for shorts with loafers

What kind of loafer styles to wear with shorts? Any of your favorite casual loafers will work — penny loafers, tassel loafers, suede loafers, and leather loafers can work. Ultimately, the best loafers with shorts are really just the ones you feel most comfortable wearing. You’re going for laid-back sophistication, not “I couldn’t find my Sambas and had to wear these” awkwardness.

For a more casual look, reach for a t-shirt and chino shorts. If you want to up the formality, swap in dressier shorts —pleats are a very 2024 option! — and a button-down shirt.

Wear loafers and shorts with tall socks

man standing on a patio wearing a short sleeve blue shirt, light shorts, white socks and loafers — image: @1lrg

Want to push the degree of difficulty further? Style Girlfriend’s Instagram Explore page is currently chock full of guys wearing their shorts with loafers and socks.

That’s right, socks and loafers. Together at last.

Now, I’m not talking a pair of socks that hover around your ankles, making you look like a stereotype of a dorky dad on vacation. This look is intentional, and if I’m being honest, takes some confidence to pull off.

man in a denim jacket and dark shorts with white socks and black loafers — image: @juliusgod

Whether you’re opting for tassels or pennies, pair your loafers with a (usually) tall white sock for an extra kick.

You already know how women feel about a man in a tall sock with shorts; adding loafers to the mix just ups the fashion ante.

If you’ve got the pairing in your wardrobe, don’t be afraid to mix and match.

What kind of socks to wear with loafers

image of a man from the neck down. he's wearing a white t-shirt, black fanny pack slung over his shoulder, black shorts and white socks with black penny loafers. he's holding a green drink — image: @isaachudson

You can go for a thin trouser sock, or a thicker athletic sock. Really, it just depends on how tight your shoes are, and the vibe you’re going for.