The History of Penny Loafers

The penny loafer is an American classic born more than 70 years ago. The shoes have remained popular throughout the decades because their simple, uncluttered lines make them an ideal accessory for a variety of outfits, from business suits to shorts.

History

The G.H. Bass shoe company introduced the original version of the shoe in 1936, calling it the Weejun. The name refers to the flat slip-on shoes worn by Norwegian farmers.

Style

Loafers existed before the introduction of the Weejun. In 1933, the Spaulding Leather Company turned out its version of the loafer. Bass, however, was the first company to add the band with its signature opening. In the 1970s, the shoes became an essential part of the Preppy look. Bass introduced a slimmer version of the shoe called the Dover Weejun in 2009.

Coins

In the 1940s and 1950s, Weejun wearers started slipping dimes--the price of a pay telephone call--into the shoe pockets. Pennies, the shinier the better, came later as a matter of style.

Effects

Penny loafers have inspired numerous imitations in wide price ranges. A leather Prada version is priced at nearly $400, whereas the leather Bass Weejun sells for $125.

Popularity

The penny loafer got a boost in popularity when famous people such as actor James Dean, President John F. Kennedy and singer Michael Jackson wore them in public.

Resources

• GQ article on Weejuns