Summer isn’t just about rising temperatures, it’s also events season, with everything from regattas and sports to parties requiring you to be turned out appropriately. That throws a bit of a spanner in the works as, despite being the most breathable, comfortable shoes for the season, nobody wants to be that one guy in sandals at an elegant garden party. Fortunately, there are plenty of shoemakers out there creating summer-ready silhouettes that aren’t just comfortable, they’re stylish enough to build your entire smart-casual wardrobe around. Here are some of our favourites.
Mryqvist Brännö II Moss Green, £199
Sometimes less is more – particularly in the heat – and the BRÄNNÖ from Swedish shoemaker Myrqvist is about as minimal as a summer loafer gets. It’s not just the unfussed, smoothly curvaceous silhouette of the Italian suede; it’s also unlined for a more breathable, comfortable fit. The sole is clean white rubber with a slightly raised heel, with a repeating M pattern doubling as extra grip for when those long summer days don’t actually last that long. The shoe’s available in a few colours but for our money the moss green offers a fresh alternative to the usual summer tans and pastels.
Available at Myrqvist.
Edward Green Montpellier Unlined, £1,120
If you’re after a serious investment piece you can do a lot worse than the perennially elegant saddle loafer – and a good deal worse than the superb examples from Jermyn Street icon Edward Green. Their latest take on the otherwise classical Montpellier is unlined for a lighter profile, but more importantly it makes the shoe slightly less stifling, perfect for the kind of warmer weather you’d want to bring the suede out in. Here that suede is in a raw umber, a nutty tan that’s both light and classically inclined. Pair with a light linen blazer for an elegant, warm weather look perfect for the Italian coastline.
Available at Edward Green.
Cheaney Drake Boat Shoe, £260
There are few summer styles more versatile than the boat shoe and, given that’s the very style that Cheaney’s best known for, it would be remiss not to include the historic British brand. Treading the line between formal and casual with its nautical combination of navy blue suede upper and pristine white rubber soles, the Drake is perfect for elevating your go-to shorts-and-polo look. And yes, that means you can wear them without socks, thanks to the soft leather and textile lining. If you don’t want to really hammer home the ‘boat’ in boat shoes, they’re also available in cognac, though we personally think it’s worth leaning in.
Available at Cheaney.
Crockett & Jones Falmouth Khaki Suede, £485
While the Falmouth falls into the boat shoe catchall, it’s perhaps better described as a Derby loafer. That means it has laces and a slightly more structured silhouette, while keeping things low and comfortable. The boat shoe element is mainly in the sole, which is shiny and new to Crockett & Jones, with a wedge design and horizontal tread pattern. In a versatile khaki suede with brown sole and laces, they’re the ideal halfway house for someone that likes the look of loafers but needs a little extra security from their shoes. Pair with chinos, a breathable shirt and you can take the look anywhere.
Available at Crockett & Jones.
Harry’s London Wharf Loafer, £270
Sure, this classic loafer in a light, denim blue has all the hallmarks of a summer classic, but you might find yourself wanting to wear them wherever and whenever you can. The textured rubber sole has plenty of grip, a Technogel insole offers superb comfort, and an internal lining keeps the entire construction durable enough to last season after season. The good news is that you can indeed wear them in inclement weather thanks to the protectively treated suede. They’re made in Italy, which suggests where you should be wearing them. Pair with light matching light blue linen and you’re good to go.
Available at Harry’s.
