Men’s tassel loafers represent a timeless classic in the male wardrobe. Combining refinement and comfort, these versatile shoes work equally well with casual or formal attire. At In Corio, each loafer is designed to meet the expectations of modern men, combining artisanal quality with a distinct aesthetic.

Why choose men’s tassel loafers?

Men’s tassel loafers embody casual elegance with a touch of sophistication. Originally intended for formal occasions, they’ve evolved into an everyday staple. Available in smooth leather or suede, this model perfectly adapts to individual tastes and needs, whether in black, brown, or even blue.

At In Corio, we prioritize exceptional materials, such as full-grain leather sourced from the finest tanneries. Each pair reflects our passion for artisanal expertise and our commitment to French elegance. Our men's loafers combine comfort and durability, thanks to ergonomic soles and a timeless design. By choosing our models, you’re investing in a shoe designed to last, while enhancing your style.

How to wear your tassel loafers

For the office: Wear them with gray flannel trousers and a white shirt for a polished professional look that remains modern and approachable.

Casual outing: Pair them with raw denim and a lightweight sweater for a chic and comfortable style, perfect for weekends or city strolls.

Special occasions: Combine them with a beige or light blue suit for an elegant contrast that stands out from traditional lace-up shoes.

Caring for your tassel loafers

To maintain the elegance of your loafers, use a soft brush to gently clean the leather or suede. Apply a nourishing cream to preserve suppleness and restore the shine. Finally, always insert cedar shoe trees after each wear to maintain their original shape and prevent walking creases from setting in.

Discover the In Corio collection

In Corio men’s tassel loafers are the result of artisanal expertise, blending exceptional materials and timeless design. Each model is carefully crafted to meet the demands of modern men, offering the perfect balance of elegance and practicality. Whether you’re seeking a pair for a special event or to elevate your everyday attire, our shoes embody uncompromising quality and style.

The tassel loafer occupies a place of its own: more present than a penny loafer, less solemn than an Oxford. Here is where it comes from, what makes a good tassel loafer and how to wear it without hesitation.

What is a tassel loafer?

A tassel loafer is a moccasin whose vamp is decorated with two leather tassels, tied onto a decorative lace. It belongs to the family of men's moccasins, like the famous penny loafer, from which it is distinguished by the absence of a cut-out strap. The terms "tassel loafer", "tassel moccasin" and "tasselled moccasin" all refer to the same shoe.

A shoe born from a request

According to the most commonly reported story, the tassel loafer was born after the Second World War, at the request of the Hungarian-born actor Paul Lukas. He is said to have brought back from Europe a pair of lace-up shoes whose laces ended in small tassels, and asked an American shoemaker to make a moccasin from them. The model then became a classic of the men's wardrobe, on both sides of the Atlantic.

Leather or suede: which tassel loafer should you choose?

The choice of material depends on use: smooth leather for dressy outfits, suede for a more relaxed style. The table below summarises our three versions.

Smooth leather, black or chocolate

Full-grain calf leather keeps the natural surface of the hide and develops a beautiful patina over time. In black, Adrien is the dressiest of our moccasins; in chocolate, it goes from the office to dinner without changing register.

Brown suede, to soften the tassels

In soft, water-repellent Italian suede, the tassels take on a more nonchalant air. This is the version we suggest with raw denim jeans, chinos or a linen jacket.

Moccasin comfort, the look of a dress shoe

With no lacing to adjust the fit, a moccasin depends entirely on the quality of its last. Adrien rests on the In Corio last, designed with our last-makers to follow the natural curves of the foot, on a Blake construction that flexes with the walk and on a high-density latex foam placed under the leather insole. The heel is held, the forefoot stays free: enough to wear wedding shoes from the morning right through to dinner.

How to wear tassel loafers?

The tassel loafer is worn with dressy outfits as well as casual ones, provided the tassels are the only marked detail of the silhouette. For more ideas, our article how to choose and wear men's moccasins goes through everyday combinations.

With a suit

A grey flannel or navy suit, a white shirt, fine socks matching the trousers: black or chocolate Adrien naturally finds its place there, notably at a wedding or a reception.

Which colours to combine?

Black calls for charcoal grey, midnight blue and white. Chocolate goes with navy, mid grey, beige and autumn tones such as burgundy or bottle green. Brown suede, softer, goes with camel, ecru and khaki.

In weekend wear

With beige chinos, an oxford shirt and a knit sweater, brown suede gives a polished look without stiffness. In the sunny months, it is worn with a no-show sock or barefoot.

How to care for a tassel loafer?

A tassel loafer is cared for like a classic moccasin, with particular attention to the tassels, which should not be twisted or wetted.

1. Slip cedar shoe trees into your moccasins as soon as you take them off: cedar absorbs moisture and keeps the shape of the vamp.
2. Brush smooth leather, then nourish it with a cream of the same shade, working around the tassels.
3. Brush suede dry with a brass brush and revive its colour with a suitable renovator.

For the size, take your usual size: the In Corio last is identical across all our models. Our leathers come from tanneries certified by the Leather Working Group.

Not sure about your size? Come and try our models and feel our leathers in our stores in the Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Lyon. Online, returns and exchanges are free.

Frequently asked questions about the tassel loafer

What is the difference between a tassel loafer and a tasselled moccasin?

There is none: both names refer to the same shoe, a moccasin decorated with two small leather tassels tied onto a decorative lace. In French, it is called a mocassin à gland or mocassin à pampilles.

Where does the tassel loafer come from?

According to the most widespread story, it was born in the United States after the Second World War, at the request of an actor who wanted to transpose onto a moccasin the small lace tassels he had seen in Europe.

Is a tassel loafer dressier than a penny loafer?

Yes, slightly. Its tassels make it more present and it goes more naturally with a suit or ceremonial outfit. The penny loafer remains the most versatile of the moccasins.

In summary

The tassel loafer adds a detail of character to the simplicity of the moccasin. In black or chocolate leather, it goes with the suit; in brown suede, it softens the weekend. Discover Adrien above and choose the version that will complete your wardrobe.