Few know how to make a loafer quite like G.H. Bass.
Home to the iconic penny loafer, the label first launched the slipper-type moccasin in the late ‘30s after its founder—George Henry Bass—became aware of the European interest in a lace-free shoe and adapted them for the leisure classes in America.
Originally, the shoe was a must-have item for the wealthy, holiday-making elite—however, with menswear brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton and UNDERCOVER embracing tailoring, today, the silhouette has infiltrated the uniform of various subcultures around the globe, with designs that warrant just as much attention as sneakers and boots.
Now, taking inspiration from previous loafer designs, the heritage footwear label has just unveiled its latest silhouette: the unisex Panama loafer. Arriving in “Golden Tan”, “Rich Brown’’ and black, the newest addition is hand-crafted from a rich polished leather and is rounded out with a natural leather sole. Each style also features an embellished silver bar design engraved with a penny slot as a nod to the shoemaker’s roots.
To accompany the launch, the brand has created a campaign shot on film to create raw, honest images in close proximity to the subjects. Drawing on the idea of a down on his luck jazz musician and his muse, the imagery makes reference to album sleeves and the photographic style of legends William Claxton and Bill Cunningham.
Take a look at the new Panama Loafer below. The silhouette is available now from the G. H. Bass webstore.
