There are certain things about fall that feel like an unspoken rule: pumpkin spice everything, the return of oversized scarves, and—this year in particular—the rise of tartan. Wearing a bit of plaid once the leaves begin to turn feels almost like a seasonal requirement. But here’s the twist: while tartan may be the reigning print of the season, it doesn’t shine quite as brightly without its perfect companion. Enter the bow loafer.
Yes, you heard me right. Loafers are officially back on the style radar (were they ever truly gone?), and this fall, the bow is the detail you didn’t know you needed.
Why the Bow Loafer is the Shoe of the Season
I’ll admit, I’ve been living in flats these days. Whether you call them loafers, slippers, or something in between, the truth is simple: comfort wins. Still, I don’t believe in sacrificing style for practicality. That’s where the bow comes in. It’s a small, almost playful detail, but it transforms a classic shoe into something far more refined. It’s understated femininity meeting timeless tailoring, and the result is nothing short of irresistible.
Think of it this way: a plain loafer says “effortlessly chic.” A bow-topped loafer whispers, “I planned this.” It’s still easy, still versatile, but elevated in a way that feels perfect for fall dressing.
My First Pair (and Why I Haven’t Looked Back)
I picked up my own pair during London Fashion Week—a time when style inspiration is practically spilling onto the sidewalks—and it was love at first wear. Since then, they’ve hardly left my feet. They go with everything: tartan trousers, cropped denim, even the occasional midi skirt when I want to soften the look.
What I love most is that they’ve become the pair of shoes I reach for without overthinking. You know those items in your wardrobe that just work? The ones that save you on mornings when you have “nothing to wear”? That’s the bow loafer for me right now.
Styling the Duo: Tartan + Loafers
Now, let’s talk about this winning combination. Tartan has a boldness to it—it carries history, heritage, and a certain edge. Pairing it with bow loafers strikes the perfect balance. The pattern provides statement; the shoe provides polish.
For example:
- Plaid trousers + bow loafers = the ultimate office-to-dinner look. Add a cozy knit for daytime, swap it for a silk blouse at night, and you’re done.
- Tartan mini skirt + bow loafers = preppy with a grown-up twist. It’s a nod to schoolgirl chic without veering into costume territory.
- Oversized tartan coat + bow loafers = drama on top, ease on the bottom. Perfect for when you want your coat to steal the show but still look pulled together.
The truth is, tartan and loafers both have an inherently classic quality, so when styled together, they feel timeless but also incredibly current.
Still Hesitating? Here’s Why You Should Invest
If you’re still debating whether bow loafers deserve a spot in your closet, let me reassure you: they’re worth it. Trends come and go, but the loafer as a silhouette has stood the test of time. Adding a bow detail gives you that on-trend edge without committing to something that will look outdated next season.
Plus, they’re practical. I’ve worn mine through long days of running around the city, from school drop-offs to meetings, and they hold up beautifully. Comfort, style, and a touch of whimsy—what more could you ask for in a fall shoe?
And if the bow detail feels too sweet for your taste, no rules say you have to choose that version. A sleek pair of loafers—bowless and bold—will still carry you through the season with ease. But there’s something about that bow… it just makes me smile.
A Personal Rule of Fall Fashion
Every season, I like to adopt one or two “style anchors”—pieces that guide the rest of my wardrobe. This year, tartan and bow loafers are those anchors. They simplify the decision-making process and remind me that sometimes, fashion is about joy as much as it is about function.
Because here’s the thing: clothes aren’t just about keeping warm or ticking off trends. They’re about how they make you feel. And right now, slipping into a pair of bow loafers while pulling on something tartan feels like embracing fall in the most stylish way possible.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip the Bow
Fall fashion can sometimes veer into the predictable—layers upon layers, dark palettes, the usual suspects. But it’s the little twists, like a bow detail on your loafers, that keep things interesting. They’re proof that comfort and elegance can coexist, and that even the smallest design choice can completely shift your outfit’s vibe.
So yes, tartan is non-negotiable this season. But trust me on this: skipping the bow loafer would be a style crime.
