by Lesli Larson
“Weejun” style loafer
Alden Penny Loafer (Cape Cod Collection)
On Saturday, I visited Jordan at Winn Perry to sample a loafer that fit my shopping requirements. Jordan knew about my loafer search and suggested a beef roll penny loafer from the Cape Cod Collection–one that does not appear in the Alden print or online catalog. I should note that I continue to source my loafers from men’s collections. As readers of this blog know, it’s nearly impossible to find classic style footwear in sizes for women. I wear a women’s 8.5 but can get away with a men’s 6.5 or 6. Fortunately, Alden offers most of their shoes in sizes down to 6 (and smaller) in a range of widths. Jordan was kind enough to size my feet using a Brannock device. Now that I know my Alden size (for different lasts), I can sign up for one of his future, special edition Alden projects.
As it turns out, the Alden H410 loafers are perfect. After a little prep by my local shoe repairman (adding a protective half-sole), I’ll be testing these out as my daily drivers. Thanks to Jordan for sourcing these loafers for me. I would never have found them on my own. How important, still, is the brick and mortar store and its knowledgeable proprietor!
Alden Model H410 penny loafers
Beef roll stitching on Sebagos, vintage Sears loafers and new Aldens
From the archives
Ralph Lauren sells some nice, made in USA beefroll penny loafers as well and they occasionally show up on ebay for cheap.
Robin–
Do you know if they come in smaller sizes for women? With a high vamp?
Here, here for Jordan! I still have a hard time shopping online. I enjoy storefronts where the proprietor cares about the look and welcoming feel of the store. Winn Perry is such a great example of that.
C&J has a few loafers for both men and women. quite nice imo. If you like any men’s models, you could do a special order or find a slimmer alternative from the women’s collection.
ooooo, go here (click on the “here”) to see my shared appreciation for these shoes!
i have definitely grown into my appreciation for having big feet – men’s shoes are my just reward!
You can imagine my surprise/shock/horror/whining when I went to replace my last pair of Weejuns (ladies size 8.5 W) about four years ago. I’m wearing some of Bass’s current line of penny loafers now, but I’m not happy about it. And I still hope that Hush Puppies will bring back the Fritzi…
some loafer photos from catalogs
http://www.flickr.com/photos/13060974@N07/
If you’re an Alden Shoe fan…you might like this story & video that I produced for the Boston Globe:
http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/01/24/sole_survivor/
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I bought the Sebago loafer but could never wear it in, they were too stiff for me.