It’s time that we discuss Everlane’s Modern Loafer, the 100% Italian leather loafer that is about 60% less expensive than comparable loafers. We’ve also written articles about Everlane’s Cocoon Coat and their Day Market Tote because those are some of the products that rock our socks the most.

When you initially remove the Everlane Modern Loafer from its dust bag you get to see up close the stitching detail, the shine of the hand-polished leather and the overall sleek design of the shoe from heel to toe. Although the modern loafer offers no arch support they are still quite comfortable as the leather inner soles are supple and soft.

$168 at the time of publication

If you can’t tell, we’re huge fans of Everlane and not just because of the quality of their products but also because of their commitment to redefining the retail industry. So let’s start by going more into what they’re up to and what that means for you as a shopper.

Everlane’s Motto Is “Radical Transparency”

Everlane’s motto is “radical transparency”and what they mean by that is they are an open book when it comes to their supply chain practices retail price points, markup, and factories. Beneath every product on their online store, they break down the final retail price of their items by cost of materials, hardware, labor, taxes, and shipping and to the right of your product you can click to see what factory it was produced in, in what country, and the conditions of the factory.

Everything you need to know about your purchase is all right there in plain view and that’s the radical transparency that they’re promising. The one exception to this according to Michael Preysman, founder and CEO of Everlane, is that they withhold the names of their Italian factories “because if someone came in and took those factories, they could completely wipe us out.” He makes the world of fashion sound dog eat dog and perhaps that’s true. At a minimum, it’s certainly intriguing.

$168 at the time of publication

How Everlane’s Modern Loafer Fits

The Everlane Modern Loafer fits narrow so if you have a wide foot it’s recommended to order one-half size up. The reality of quality leather is that they need to be broken in before they feel comfortable enough to wear all day. While there are a rare few unicorns that haven’t encountered the need to break in their loafers the vast majority of reviews state that this is definitely necessary.

After you unbox these babies and decide you want to keep them, throw on some thicker socks and walk around your house in them. Do this for a couple days and you’ll find that by the time you’re ready to wear them out you’ve successfully avoided painful blisters. The thick sock method is our go-to because the idea of taking a blow dryer or ice bucket to brand new Italian leather loafers sounds…heinous.

$168 at the time of publication

Everlane’s Modern Loafer Is Made Of 100% Italian Leather

But, what’s so great about Italian leather? Well, it’s touted as the most durable and long-lasting because of the process it goes through and Italian artisans are said to be the most skilled at taking raw-hide and processing it through tanning and finishing.

Italian leather is often but not exclusively vegetable-tanned which is the oldest known method of tanning and involves the use of tannins extracted from tree bark.

The subtle markings on leather shoes are the result of the natural vegetable tanning process which makes each pair inherently unique.Tan leather is typically just vegetable-tanned leather that hasn’t been dyed yet.

The Everlane Modern Loafer is 50% vegetable tanned and 50% chrome tanned because although vegetable tanning is the most distinctive method it does not hold up well in water and is not suitable for mass production.

Chrome Tanning is known to be softer and doesn’t lose shape or as drastically as vegetable-tanned leather. In a nutshell, Everlane’s production of their Italian leather loafer is a happy combination of distinctive premium tanning process and one that also protects your investment in the long-term.

$168 at the time of publication

How To Style Your Everlane Modern Loafer

The most exciting part of the prospect of any new shoe is the rush of ideas for styling them and this is where this style of loafer really shines. While these loafers have a somewhat understated aesthetic they can totally play the role of your outfit’s statement piece. For example, in the summer months, if you pair the red Everlane Modern Loafers with a simple basic tee, high-waisted denim shorts, and a skinny belt, the shoes really become the focal point.

There are other great styling ideas for you to play with as well, in the fall these look absolutely stunning with an oversized knit sweater and cropped pants, a look that’s comfy warm and incredibly polished. For a business meeting, you can pair them with a sleek pant-suit and silk blouse. The ideas are infinite.

$168 at the time of publication

How The Modern Loafer Wears Overtime

Because these shoes are 100% leather, they wear well overtime after breaking them in. I personally prefer the look of worn leather, particularly because it adds character to the piece. After a lot of wear, the Modern Loafer will get the typical creasing in the toe that you find in leather shoes. I find that the creasing lends itself to a more classic look and comfortable feel. Over time the shoe won’t feel overly snug on the foot but they will still feel secure.

Are you ready to grab your pair or have you already? We’re curious about how you intend to style these lovely loafers!

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