Snaffle/broken bit loafers... acceptable alternative to DIY "buckle brogues"

[BadenochWolf]

Happy New Year, Rabble!

I've seen some posts of DIY Buckle Brogues lately, usually converting a high-vamp loafer of some kind. When I was younger and had less sense, I bought a pair of loafers by an Italian fashion house. They're black with silver hardware, and polish up fairly well. I'm wondering if I can get away with wearing them in daytime formal (BBSB Argyll) and/or black-tie situations. I'm specifically putting this in the "Traditional" tab because I would like to know what those inclined to adhere more strictly to dress conventions think.





Edit: please excuse the messy parlor.. was quickly trying on some Christmas gifts and thought I'd snap a picture with the shoes to illustrate what I meant.

[Jock Scot]

If it helps any I happily wear well polished black tassled loafers to some formal day weddings and minor black tie evening events too, no one in the best part of thirty years has ever made a comment about them ,one way or the other. I notice that they are becoming quite popular in the circles that I move in these days. The "snaffle" part hardly makes any difference in my view. Besides, who in real life is going to notice and who in real life is going to comment even if they do? It is only on a website like this one where kilt attire enthusiasts are hyper critical in an educational way, to assist those that might be interested.

Smart turnout there laddie! Although, a tad more polish and a tad more elbow grease on those shoes, might finish off the outfit to perfection!

[Spartan Tartan]

I think they look just fine. I prefer those to the more "fancy" buckle brogues too. All together, I say you have a nice outfit there.

[Liam]

I concur with Jock's comments, but suggest that you should do something different with your hair!����

[MacLowlife]

I think they look better than the white shoes you took off and hid under the ottoman, but I am not convinced. I have some shoes like those- the bit loafers, not the white ones- and something about them is a little slick and slender for my taste when juxtaposed with the kilt. And I can't explain why I think that and then wear opera pumps with mine. I just think there is a crucial miss, there. And I think maybe you sense the same thing, which is why you asked.

I think the bit loafers are perfectly acceptable as what they are, but I think they are wrong for Saxon formal wear, too. Have you worn yours with a tuxedo? I think I might have in the dim past, but I think now that they are more of an odd trouser and jacket shoe, maybe even a no socks lounging shoe, not for suits or anything dressier.

But I think the rest of your outfit is outstanding.

[MacRobert's Reply]

Passable but not with black tie IMHO. There are high-shine dress loafers that work with black tie and the brogued versions work well with the kilt.