Looking for some tips on styling men’s penny loafers. I’m 32. I work at a tech company and dress is very casual. People very often wear jeans, T-shirt, and sneakers. Sometimes even shorts. I’d like to dress up just a bit more with the loafers, but not overdue it. What are good sock/pant combinations to wear with penny loafers for a smart casual look? Am I too old for white socks with loafers?

like
Posting as :
works at
You are currently posting as works at

Light Khaki chinos/light-wash jeans with brown leather penny loafers for the spring/summer; darker khaki chinos and rinse wash jeans with suede penny loafers (or tassel loafers) for the fall/winter. Wear socks that are the same color tone as your pants.

like

Good advice. Suede loafers are a great look. Take your time before buying. Be willing to spend a lot because it’s really an investment. I sometimes buy really high quality shoes secondhand and I think my oldest pair are bench made and over 60 years old - and I get compliments every time I wear them.

Go for a color pant like dark green, dark blue, maroon etc and simple dress socks.

like

Any socks except white or black with penny loafers (which I presume are brown because that's standard.) I'd style you with: jeans, fun argyle socks, green tweed sport jacket, and a tan or natural color tee (brown, etc.)

like

Not too old at all—white socks with loafers can work, but it’s all about intentionality. If you’re aiming for smart casual in a tech environment, I’d recommend these combos:

1. Sock Game:
– No-show socks (optional, if you can tolerate them) for a cleaner, minimalist summer look.
– White crew socks can work if you lean retro/streetwear (think 80s skate vibes or Steve Jobs chic), but keep the rest of your outfit sharp—e.g., tapered trousers or dark jeans.
– Textured or patterned socks (e.g., subtle stripes, marled knits) in neutral tones elevate the look without trying too hard.

2. Trousers/Jeans:
– Slim-fit jeans (raw or dark wash) cuffed just above the loafer to show a bit of sock/ankle.
– Chinos or lightweight stretch trousers (sometimes called tech trousers) in earth tones or navy for an easy upgrade from jeans.
– Avoid super baggy or long inseams—loafers shine when your pant break is minimal.

Overall, loafers are a great “I care, but I’m still chill” move in casual tech. You’ll stand out just enough—in a good way.

Related Posts

Why don't firms invest in R&D for Artificial General Intelligence? Seems like this would be a powerful tool to have as a consultancy

funny

I’m a PV consultant, typically coming in as interim Heads of PV and helping clean up disasters. Considering going back into Pharma- what si the base salary of a Head of PV typically? I currently command $250-300 per hour

like

Hi,
I have 2years experience in us healthcare claims.
If any vacancy available for this profile please let me know

like

How many hours do MBBs work a day on avg? And what does the day look like - any breaks?

like

Can I reject project in client interview in CGI if I am not okay with roles and responsibilities said by client or it will lead to escalation?

like

Anyone got H1B interview appointment? I am still waiting for the HR to confirm that I can go ahead and take an appointment. What is the process , why to still keep on waiting when I can see the appointments are available now.

like

Has anyone here gone through a marriage based green card process with Deloitte? I believe I read somewhere that you can start that process regardless of being in an application period or not. Want to hear some stories of length, initiation, etc

Hows WLB in EY GDS for technology consulting?

Technology: - SAP Technical

like

Hi Fishes,
+Repost
I have 6 years of experience and have offers from the below companies, Help me on selecting the same?
I am getting a headache as my last date is approaching. Please Help me before Jan 18.

Company, project, CTCdetails are below.

Value Labs - Banking(Fullstack) - 19Fixed + 2LPA
NTT Data - Well Fargos (React) - 20 + 3LPA
Hexaware - Amaze Banking Project (reactjs,AZURE) - 20+2 LPA
GSPANN - Sports E-commerce (AWS, MERN) - 20+2 LPA

like

I started working as a consultant with EY 8 months ago. Even though I'm content and learning a lot there, I think there are places where I might easily earn more money. I received a job offer last week from Alvarez & Marsal to work as a consultant at the Transaction Advisory Department (financial due diligence team), where I will be paid more fairly (salary & bonus). Should I accept it? Or would leaving EY that early not be wise?

likeuplifting

What can be expected from EY GDS for Lead AWS Developer for 7.5 yrs of experience in terms of compensation, current CTC being 18.5

like
like

I was recently interviewed by Hexaware. How much notice period is acceptable by Hexaware ?

Pwc sdc, Ey gds, kpmg us, GT us, everyone giving WFH flexibility.
Why deloitte usi kolkata is forcing us to join by August'22 ?

like

How often office party happens in Deloitte credit risk team??

like
like

Does anyone go to a decent, inexpensive gym in jersey city? Just looking for a spot to lift at

like

How does one go about switching countries while staying in similar roles? Eg moving from NA to EU, similar role/L-level?
I understand factors like previous perf results, and immigration laws. Do people do this? Can someone share their experience (own/anecdotal)?

like

Additional Posts in Working in Style

On which kind of strap do you prefer to wear your watch?

I personally prefer NATO straps for sports watches and Perlon straps for dress watches.

like

Barber recs in Manhattan that can do a nice fade and scissor cut?

like

Is Charles Tyrwhitt a good brand? They have 3 shirts for $89 right now and they usually have deals for 3 shirts for $99.

like

Any recommendations for summer polos? Not going for active wear but something that goes well with jeans.

like

Male 🐠 - where do you get your casual shoes from? I’m talking about an alternative to wearing vans or adidas sneakers. Something that you can wear with shorts or jeans on a weekend.

Watch noob. Planning to get into the game, any watches/brands that I should look out for in the $500-700 range?

Any consulting firms hiring? I graduated June 2020

like

What’s the consensus on the Cole Haans that are Oxford/sneaker hybrids. Thinking about getting a pair. Client is jeans and a polo shirt most of the time, so seems appropriate

Hey all - looking for help finding new men’s clothing for casual wear (all seasons). What’re your go-to brands?

Trying to expand my style & look at new brands - currently shopping at Zara, H&M, Bonobos, Banana Republic

Thanks for the help!

like

so I have trouble presenting myself well. I usually look haggard and I seem to wear out shoes and clothes at an alarming rate. Looking for a few good guiding principles to improve on this. M fish

like

FYI - this is a HUGE weekend for sales! check all ur favorite retailers and brands! saks, bloomingdale’s, mr porter, other retailers and tons of labels!

likehelpful

Nice Leather laptop bag recommendations pls. Looked at Tumi website. I can’t expense ~$600 for 💼.

like

Whats your favorite brand for plain white or light blue formal shirts?

like

Best electric razor for men (facial grooming)?

What is your fashion inspiration? (i.e. GQ, Pinterest, etc?)

like

Recently hired Consultant, looking to buy a nice dress shirt with first paycheck. Considering getting one from Thomas Pink. Thoughts?

Fellas, recommendations on good shampoo and conditioners?

like

Where do you usually buy your clothes? How much do you typically spend in a month?

like

Should I be using shoe trees for Ferragamo drivers?

like

Recommendations on slim fit denim shirts. Not for the office of course but I feel like it’s a staple I need in my wardrobe.

New to Fishbowl?

Download the Fishbowl app to
unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.
That was just a preview…
Sign Up to see all discussions
  • Discover what it’s like to work at companies from real professionals
  • Get candid advice from people in your field in a safe space
  • Chat and network with other professionals in your field
Sign up in seconds to unlock all discussions on Fishbowl.

Already a user?
Login here

Share

Embed this post

Copy and paste embed code on your site

Preview

Download the
Fishbowl app

See what’s happening in your industry
from the palm of your hand.

A phone with Fishbowl app

Scan your QR code to download
Fishbowl app on your mobile

Download app

Sign up for free to view this conversation on Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Already have an account? Log in

Sign up for free to continue using Fishbowl

By continuing you agree to Terms of Use(New) and Privacy Policy(New)
Messaging rates may apply

Already have an account? Log in

For account settings, visit Fishbowl on Desktop Browser or

General

Legal