Shoesday #2: A $200 Loafer That Looks Like A $1,300 Loafer

Plus, 6 more pairs with the same toe detail, listed from most to least expensive.

Apr 22, 2025

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Welcome to Shoesday, a weekly column, sent every Tuesday, about shoes.

Over the weekend, my friend Lawrence and I were talking about clothes, as we often do. But on this particular occasion, we were specifically discussing his loafers from The Row, which, despite looking undeniably cool (shout out to eel leather) and carrying with them what I assume is the very enjoyable potential for a potent subtle flex (i.e., being able to say “The Row” every time someone asks him who makes his shoes), set him back a gasp-worthy amount of over $1,300.

Now, personally speaking, I’m not above dropping serious money on shoes (or recommending high quality, expensive shoes to you, dear reader), but when Lawrence then mentioned he recently came across a pair of loafers that had a similar look to his, but were available for over $1,000 less, I had to investigate. Within 24 hours I found myself in the belly of the retail beast that is Rockefeller Center trying them on, and, after determining they were in fact an excellent alternative to Larry’s ultra-premium version, I bought ‘em on the spot. That’s why below I’m highlighting them for Shoesday #2 alongside 6 other pairs of loafers that all have The Row loafer’s signature feature—namely their gathered, “pinched toe” leather upper—at various price points. I’ve listed them from most to least expensive, so let’s get to it. Enjoy!!!

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The $1,300 Version

The elite of the elite of the gathered toe loafer style, which here, unlike Larry’s pair, are shown in an extremely supple calf leather. They’re literally called the “Soft Loafers,” which I imagine means you can expect little to no break in period on these beauties. I also appreciate the slight heel which makes them feel just a touch more dainty and sophisticated. Ultimately, if I had the dough I might very well buy them, but I’m fully aware that in doing such, I’d mostly paying for the ability to tell people I’m wearing one of the coolest brands on the planet. Which, hey, is not worth nothing!

The Row Soft Napa Leather Loafers

The $1,100 Version

If you want a slightly more overt flex for your money, but one that’s still undeniably delivered in a tasteful package, then these loafers from Saint Laurent, which boast a subtle YSL logo hit, are for you. I’m also into the slightly shiny leather on these which would really *pop* against some mid wash jeans.

Saint Laurent Le Loafer

The $650 Version

There’s only a few pairs of these loafers from Tod’s left on Farfetch, but if you want to spring this spring for something that’s still premium (but decidedly less than 4 figures), look no further. These also come with the added comfort benefits of a rubber outsole + the rich history of a shoemaker that’s been in the biz for over a hundred years.

Tod’s Smooth Leather Loafers

The $430 Version

(See the rest of the list, including a $380 pair, a $329 pair, and finally, the $220 pair I personally just bought below.)

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