Benjamin Bujnowski

This list will mostly focus on penny loafers because that's the most popular style, but every one of these companies will have things such as horsebit loafers, tassel loafers, and sometimes even Belgian style loafers. 1. Meermin: The most affordable on this list at around $230. They have two primary toe shapes — a slightly sleeker style that can be worn with tailoring and then a more rounded style that's better for casualwear. The construction tends to be slightly stiffer than other makers on this list, but will break in just fine. Use them around the neighborhood for short spurts before taking them out on all-day walks. 2. Quoddy and Rancourt: Two US makers who produce hand-sewn penny loafers in Maine. By handsewn I mean the apron is sewn using just a needle and thread (no machine). Both companies offer beefroll penny loafers, which are called so because they have little bits that resemble a roll of beef. These styles go best with things like flat front chinos, oxford button-downs, and Shetland sweaters. Both companies have MTO programs if you want a different leather upper or sole style. 3. Morjas and Myrqvist: A little sleeker and European with marketing aimed at slightly younger people. Morjas is right at $400, but you can get a $20 coupon by using their "refer a friend" program. Myrqvist uses a softer single-rubber sole if you want something with more traction on indoor floors or simply want something with no break-in period. (The style is sometimes called a "city sole" at other companies). 4. Grant Stone and TLB Mallorca: Grant Stone offers a shape that works between casualwear and sport coats. I prefer their loafers in suede, rather than the pull-up Chromexcel (CXL). TLB offers a higher level of construction. They use leather heel stiffeners, rather than the Celastics you'll find elsewhere on this list. All of these shoes are made from full-grain leather and Goodyear welt soles. There are a ton of other options, such as Jay Butler, and ways to get higher-priced loafers for less, such as waiting for Alden Factory seconds to drop at The Shoe Mart.

Scoop shop: Fresh off an exit from his own label, Jack Carlson is headed to J Press as Creative Director

Nepotism Dan gonna bring in someone who was calling BINGO games at the local VFW who he “knows”