I finally got my hands on the Frēda Salvador ELBA Penny Loafer and I’m so exited to share my thoughts on this style. I can confidently say that Frēda Salvador is my favorite footwear brand. My love for them started when I purchased the LIBBY Sneaker and it only grows with each new style that I try.

Frēda Salvador is a female owned company, making shoes ethically and sustainably. The products are high quality with really great design details. They fit so well and are made of premium materials. Frēda has such a desirable aesthetic— classic styles reimagined in a modern way that are wearable, versatile, and interesting. The ELBA fits perfectly in this aesthetic.

You can get 15% off your first order at Frēda Salvador with code: MICHELLE15

The History of Penny Loafers:

The Aurland Moccasin was created in Norway in the early 1900s by a fisherman. Wealthy sportsman from America traveled to Norway and were drawn to the simple shoes the local fisherman wore. They purchased pairs for themselves and took them back home.

Once back in states, they wore the Aurland out in popular places and in 1935 a magazine staffer at Esquire photographed a pair in Palm Beach. The head of Esquire took the shoe to American footwear label G.H. Bass where they adapted the Aurland into the Weejun, a thicker-soled version of the shoe with a distinctive cutout in the middle of the strap. An early advertisement for the shoe referred to them as the “symbol of elegant leisure”.

The Weejun became the “it” shoe to wear on college campuses in the 1940’s – 1960’s. It became the popular norm for students to put their pay phone change in the strap’s slot on the shoes. They started to call the shoes “Penny Loafers” and the name stuck. This Ivy League style made its way onto the feet of musicians, politicians, and businessman. Everyone was wearing penny loafers, they became a versatile, staple style in the wardrobes of Americans. This style still thrives today.

What are the Frēda Salvador ELBA Penny Loafers made of?

The ELBA Penny Loafers are made of high-quality, 100% Italian leather. The tannery is rated Leather Working Group Gold. Leather Working Group is a tool to evaluate the environmental performance of leather goods manufacturers. The shoes are leather lined. They have a .75″ notched welt and angled/flared leather heel with leather sole. There is a leather and rubber slip chip heel cap for enhanced durability. Currently available in nine different colors/textures, you can pick the one that suits you best! I have them in the hickory embossed croc. I also love the sand, cuoio, espresso, and black.

You can get 15% off your first order at Frēda Salvador with code: MICHELLE15

How do the Frēda Salvador ELBA Penny Loafers fit?

The ELBA Penny Loafer fits true to size. They’re meant to be worn without socks. I got my true size and they fit great, I can even wear thin socks with them. If you’re planning to consistently wear socks with these shoes, or you want to wear socks that are medium weight, you might consider sizing up a half size. For me, I mostly wear mine without socks and my true size is perfect. Since the penny loafers are leather, there is a break in period. I wore mine around the house with socks to loosen them up as they formed to my feet. They get more and more comfy as you wear them in.

How to style the Frēda Salvador ELBA Penny Loafer: Outfit Ideas

My Everyday Jewelry: Lou Puff Heart Necklace, Mia Coin Necklace, Ophelia Ring, Pia Flat Band, Rove Twisted Ring – code: TOMCZAK10 for $10 off your first order

If you see something you like you can shop for the item(s) and support my blog at the same time by purchasing through the affiliate links in this post, at no extra cost to you. As always, I’m so grateful for your support! Items are true to size unless noted and * notes pr products.

1.) Collared Shirt + Jeans + Penny Loafers

Shirt / Jeans (I sized down one) / Sunglasses (old – new similar) / Chain & Charm (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off) / Bag* / Penny Loafers* (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off your first order)

I really love this first look. Every piece is classic yet modern. The bag feels sleek and chic. The shirt feels preppy/sporty. The jeans are a classic denim material but in a modern silhouette with modern design details. The shoes are a classic shape with modern materials and styling. It all works together.

2.) Jacket + Midi Dress + ELBA Penny Loafers

Jacket* / Dress* (I sized down one size, I would go true size if you’re larger chested, code: MICHELLETOMCZAK15 for 15% off your first order) / Bag* & Strap / Penny Loafers* (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off your first order)

This second look also has a great mixing of styles. The dress is feminine and flowy. The jacket feels more sporty and casual. The bag color pairs back to the loafers really well. The loafers and the dress feel really juxtaposed— hard and soft, masculine and feminine, light and dark.

3.) Denim Trench + Graphic Tee + Jeans + Penny Loafers

Tee / Denim Trench (old from Madewell – similar) / Bag & Strap / Jeans / Penny Loafers (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off your first order)

The third look is definitely one of my go-to ways to make an outfit. The base is very casual— jeans and a tee. I added a top layer for more interest as well as pops of whimsy and/or chic-ness through all the accessories. A great everyday look.

4.) Tank Top + Skirt + ELBA Penny Loafers

Tank / Sweater / Skirt* / Bag* / Penny Loafers* (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off your first order)

Similarly to the outfit with the dress, I love the loafers against a soft feminine skirt. I love how the trim of the basket bag pairs back to the color of the loafers. It’s a neutral outfit but full of different tones and interesting textures— sweater, bag, shoes, and a lovely print. I’d call this one everyday elevated.

5.) Cropped Cardigan + Trousers + Penny Loafers

Cardigan* (I got my true size and it’s great, size up if between sizes) / Pants (size down one) / Bag (in-store at Target) / Penny Loafers (code: MICHELLE15 for 15% off your first order)

This last looks feels the most cohesive stylistically— a cardigan, chino, and loafer are all classic. However, the shrunken cardigan brings a modern feeling and the pants being a military style makes them feel more laid back than a typical trouser. I added a whimsical handbag and I love the finished look.

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Thanks for checking out my review of the Frēda Salvador ELBA Penny Loafer! If you have any questions, or you want to share your own penny loafer memories, feel free to drop them in the comments below!

You can get 15% off your first order at Frēda Salvador with code: MICHELLE15