A loafer with a strap across the vamp containing a small shaped opening.
A penny loafer is a slip-on shoe with a strap across the vamp containing a small shaped opening. The strap is a decorative part of the upper and does not close the shoe. Fit therefore depends on the shape of the shoe and how it holds the foot, rather than on tightening laces or a buckle. Crockett & Jones identifies penny and tassel loafers as variants within its loafer category. The visible strap opening distinguishes the penny version, while a monk strap belongs to a different category because its strap and buckle provide a fastening.
In job listings
The name is more common in a shoe department than in a job description. An advisor can use it to point out the strap and its small opening, and to separate this classic style from other loafers. Search local jobs for “shoe”.
