1. Black penny loafer – The ultimate “Low effort, high impact”
This shoe doesn’t make any noise. It does the job. And it says: “I’m stylish without moving my little toe”. The black penny loafer is the Joker of the wardrobe. It can be worn with a navy blue suit, white trousers, Bermuda shorts, jeans. If you want to play it Italian, invisible sock. If you want to do a twist, navy, gray, or even white Michael Jackson-style socks – with the right texture (Bresciani type).
2. Brown tassel loafer – The shoe of the man in the know
The tassel loafer is the shoe worn by the guy who knows the name of the maître d’ at every oyster bar. Tassels are not a detail – they are a lifestyle. Old money look: Off-white pants, navy blazer with gold buttons, invisible socks, a little skin showing. Or, chocolate linen shirt, white pants and a beige sweater thrown over the shoulders.
Tip: Stay away from tan. It’s more “second-rate”. Chocolate is deeper, more refined, more sophisticated.
3. Belgian loafer – The slipper of sophistication
This is not a shoe. It’s a psychology. You put it on and you feel effortlessly cool. The Belgian loafer is “I’m elegant without trying to convince you.” Heading to the kiosk? Belgian. Drinking espresso by the marina? Belgian. Afternoon dry martini with a sunset view? Belgian. It’s like a slipper, but with finesse. Comfort that seems effortless – and yet, it’s perfectly calculated.
4. Espadrilles – The only flip-flop you’re allowed to wear
Espadrilles were born in the 14th century in Iberia and were reborn in the Cyclades. They are the official shoe of carefree style. You wear them in the Ionian Sea with linen trousers, an indigo blue shirt, a marinière on your shoulders and an attitude of “today I only drink Aperol”. They are the elegant flip flop of the man. Because -between us- flip flops should stay where they belong: in the swimming pool of 2008. Prefer a hairy, light, elegant espadrille. The one you throw under the table at a dinner al fresco, and everyone understands that you know.
5. Off-white/beige sneaker – The low-key statement
The right sneaker doesn’t shout, it doesn’t try, it doesn’t pretend. It’s quiet, elegant, clean – like a good watch or a discreet cologne. Away from huge soles and logos-signs. An off-white or beige sneaker, without obvious branding, is all you need. Wear it with jeans and a white t-shirt and you’re a calm force. But be careful: Never with socks that cut off the ankle. Or invisible socks, or regular socks up to the calf. If Alain Delon didn’t do it, why should you?
6. Bonus pair – The shoe that will make you ask “Where did you get it?”
The sixth shoe is your decision. It’s the one that expresses your character – it can be boat shoes, desert boots, or even something custom made. It’s not about what, but how. When you have style, even the unexpected seems obvious. And that’s the biggest power move.
Bottom Line: These 5+1 shoes are like Al Pacino’s lines: They’re not said by chance, but when they’re said right, they stick. Do you have the right shoes? Then you’ve already won the summer.
And don’t forget: Whatever you do, do it with style and only for your soul.
