Not Your Typical Penny Loafer
While some brands are a constant sartorial maintain, there are certain brands that are at a constant pace of evolution. Case in point: G.H. Bass & Co.® Weejuns. The brand, which originated as a preppy-inspired line of classic footwear has recently had a resurgence, playing with bold graphics, interesting fabrics and textiles, and most importantly, interesting collaborations. Stephen Palmer, G.H Bass European Partner, answered a few questions about why classic wardrobe essentials never go out of style.
The brand is having a resurgence of sorts. In terms of the product, how is it evolving?
We're constantly searching for ways to make our shoes as comfortable as possible, which means adding a smart finish to new technologies that you'd commonly find in your favorite sneakers. We also strive to introduce new fabrics, patterns and soles that help the footwear stand out, while staying close to our roots.
The penny loafer seems to be a style must have for models off duty these days. Why do you think this demographic is responding so strongly to these styles?
Simply put, they are easy, comfortable slip on styles for anyone on the go. They are a perennially stylish staple. Much like the little black dress, a classic black loafer will take you anywhere.
What's next for the brand - are there any collaborations or exciting projects coming up you can speak to?
We are constantly exploring ways in which we can partner with up-and-coming talent to discover new perspectives on a classic. Keep an eye out for some exciting one’s next year!
I loved the collaboration you did last summer with RE/DONE. How did this come about?
Everything old is new again. Re/Done, the brand known for modernizing American heritage brands, came to us with the idea of reinterpreting our iconic Weejuns penny loafer for today’s modern consumer. Their vision was to pair the perfect pair of jeans and perfect t-shirt, with the perfect pair of shoes.
The brand is credited as 'the original penny loafer'. With so many copy cats, what is it about your product that stands above the rest?
Weejuns have been worn by the likes of John F. Kennedy, Audrey Hepburn & Grace Kelly. It all starts with heritage. We developed the original penny loafer in 1936 using an innovative construction and craftsmanship. To this day our shoes are hand-sewn by skilled artisans. We also have an ongoing focus on innovation. Our shoes are lighter and more comfortable than ever. We've introduced the easy Weejuns - a range with built-in insole cushioning usually found in sneakers. Lastly, we try to push the brand with new designs that feel fresh and fashion-forward.
Recently, you've been playing with design motifs - a daisy, graffiti - what inspired this?
It's often a mix of icons we find in our archive or what our designers are currently inspired by. For this season, the graffiti print was actually a series of icons and logos we discovered from Bass branding through the ages. For our daisy appliqué we wanted to create a statement shoe that was playful yet elegant and really embodied spring / summer.
What can we expect from the next collection?
We have some very exciting developments including a collection made with luxurious tweeds. We've also introduced a new raised sole that gives our classic loafers a new street-ready edge.
