Weejuns Around The World: Global Style Inspiration
Loafers have long been a popular style staple, making their appearance in various fashion trends around the world.
This month, we did our research, and we’ll be bringing you a global Weejuns style book, with popular loafer styles from all over the world!
But First, What Are Weejuns?
In 1936, G.H.BASS took inspiration from a traditional Norwegian moccasin-style shoe and refined the design by adding the distinctive strap with a diamond-shaped cutout across the vamp. He playfully dubbed this design Weejuns, which was short for Norwegian.
As this design became popular amongst college students, they soon began a tradition of tucking in a penny for luck or emergencies in the strap, thereby giving rise to the name penny loafer.
Since then, this iconic design has made headlines across the globe, with various celebrities sporting this look!
From John F. Kennedy to Audrey Hepburn and Michael Jackson, these icons didn’t merely wear Weejuns; they made them a timeless symbol of style.
Weejuns Styled Across The Globe
The beauty of Weejuns is how versatile they can be when it comes to styling. This style of shoe is enjoyed all over the world and celebrated for its comfort and the slip-on convenience it offers. Here’s how people style them in different regions:
1. Paris: Effortless Chic
Think silk neck scarves, berets, stripe sweaters, and straight trousers. This is the style that Paris is known for. The type of effortless chic that is achieved with carefully styled pieces that all work together.
And of course, what better shoe than an iconic penny loafer to complete this look?
2. Milan: Tailored Sophistication
Milan, known as the fashion capital of the world, perfectly embodies the art of sprezzatura; the effortless elegance that looks like you weren’t even trying, yet everything is carefully chosen.
Naturally, a pair of loafers complements this look, especially when paired with the classic Italian linen suits, and a signature pair of sunglasses.
3. Boston: Classic Prep
In Boston, Weejuns are a part of the city’s DNA.
It is quite literally a symbol of Ivy League polish and timeless preppy fashion. In this city, you’ll find people styling their loafers with prints like plaid and argyle, and with tailored trousers and navy blazers; all of which perfectly encapsulate that tailored academic charm.
4. Tokyo: Clean Minimalism
Japanese fashion embraces balance. Their fashion pieces eloquently blend clean lines with monochrome tones, all of which are deeply rooted in their culture.
For them, Weejuns are best paired with socks, pleated trousers, and structured layers.
5. Cape Town: Coastal Luxury
The laid-back yet refined energy in Cape Town is unmatched. One moment you’re enjoying a stroll along the promenade, and the next, you are heading to a sunset yacht cruise.
Loafers are the perfect choice for a day filled with activities. Paired with light trousers and shirts with rolled-up sleeves, you’re ready for any event anytime.
How Do You Style Your Weejuns?
As you’ve read, our Weejuns pair beautifully with a wide variety of fashion styles out there.
This classic, easy-to-slip-on shoe offers unmatched class and versatility. With one pair of Weejuns, you can literally create a global fashion closet.
Is there an iconic global loafer style that we missed? Let us know in the comments below or tag us on social media so that we can see how you love to style your G.H.BASS Weejuns.
