What does the term penny loafer mean?
Emily Wong
Updated on March 09, 2026
What does the term penny loafer mean?
The definition of a penny loafer is a shoe with a band across the foot with a center cut-out where a penny could be put inside. The Weejun shoe by the Bass shoe company is an example of a penny loafer.
What is the classic penny loafer?
Penny loafers are laceless shoes with a moccasin-style upper that’s stitched to a separate sole and heel. They have a strip of leather called a “saddle” that sits horizontally across the instep.
Who made the original penny loafers?
Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger
History of the Penny Loafer design Did you know the style dates back to Norway in the early 1930s? After learning his shoemaking skills in America, Norwegian Nils Gregoriusson Tveranger designed a new slip-on shoe.
How do you wear black penny loafers?
Penny loafers are the most versatile loafer, and you can pair them with most outfits (you could even pair penny loafers with jeans). For tassel and Gucci loafers, think fitted trousers with a blazer and crisp button-downs. Black Tie and Loafers Don’t Mix.
Who makes the original penny loafer?
G.H. Bass
At the time these true Norwegian shoes were exclusively sourced by two London shops, and had no American maker. That was until G.H. Bass got involved and made them even better, with a little cutout for a penny, officially making the original penny loafer.
Are penny loafers still in style?
Whether you’re gearing up for a semester spent in lecture halls or have long bid adieu to the student lifestyle, penny loafers—a back-to-school classic—should be high up on your fall shopping list. Style them with pencil skirts for a more classic look or boyfriend jeans for a quirky casual outfit.
Why are they called weejuns?
‘Weejun’ is actually short for Norwegian Word has it is that students traveling to Scandinavia in the early 1900s spotted Norwegian fishermen wearing a simple, comfortable style of loafer constructed like a moccasin – almost the penny loafer.
Do they still make penny loafers?
In 1950s America before trainers were invented, the Weejun became the shoe of choice for young men and students. This eventually gave the shoes their colloquial name of Penny Loafer, which is still used today.
Why do guys wear penny loafers?
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.
Why are they called Weejuns?
What color were the original penny loafers?
The original moccasin of the US Ivy League, the legendary “Weejun”. Handmade. Colours: black, cognac (brown), wine….The Original Weejun Penny Loafer.
| EU | UK | US |
|---|---|---|
| 41 | 8 | 10 |