longtime readers of LAM know that i love a classic leather flat.
now that we're almost in ankle-jean-and-sockless-shoe weather, i'm eyeing adding a pair or two of what i've dubbed the 'relaxed garconne' loafers to my rotation (they'll be in good company with favorite Vince slip-ons - reviewed here). about a year or so ago, i stumbled upon a pair of Newbark loafers on major sale, and they turned out to be one of my best random sale buys of the year. incredibly comfortable and lightweight without being delicate, excellent travel flats.
they're not super widely known or carried in many stores, but the buttery leather and exotic textures make them easily recognizable. i like to think of them as a luxe leather version of my TOMs (also a warm-weather staple). the one major downside is their high retail price, but look for them on sale (right now there is a good selection on deep discount here). the pair that i snagged on sale were marked as 'handmade in LA', so that's likely part of the pricing equation. for me, they're a happy medium between the more structured Dieppas and the delicate, floppy Martinianos.
do you have a go-to spring shoe? what's on your shoe radar this season?