The Meermin 514511 Copper Alicante Suede Loafer just proved that you don’t need to spend a fortune on a high-quality pair of leather dress shoes. Sure, they’re under $250, but they don’t skimp on the quality details.
Founded in 2001, Meermin is a footwear brand run by 3rd and 4th generation shoemakers over in Spain. The brand produces its footwear in Shanghai, and its direct-to-consumer model helps to keep costs down, aligning with its ‘radically affordable’ ethos. Chinese-made footwear is nothing to sniff at, either. In fact, we’re taking a wider look at Chinese manufacturing in general, with brands like Grant Stone and Motivmfg producing high-quality goods out of China for years, now. It’s the product that matters, not its country of origin.
Constructed on the Meermin Nova last, these dressy loafs are now available in gorgeously versatile copper-toned Du Puy Alicante calf suede from France, as well as a slew of other leathers like Kudu and veg-tan leathers from C.F. Stead. Each pair is made with a leather sole, vegetable-tanned leather insole, and flexible heel counters, all Goodyear welted so you can wear them forever and then some.
Loafers are like classic art — they’re good for a reason and they don’t go out of style. There will always be a need for archetypal styles like this, and guess what, you don’t always have to wear them dressed up – try wearing them as casually as any other leather shoe in your rotation. Beat-up, faded denim and loafers is a look you see at Pitti Uomo every darn year.
Available for $205 from Meermin.
