Queen Elizabeth II might be known for her love of bright colours [1], bold hats [2], and impressive necklaces [3], but when it comes to footwear, it looks like the British monarch has actually always been ahead of the curve. While the horsebit loafer has had a bit of a renaissance thanks to everyone's newfound love for Gucci [4], Queen Elizabeth has actually been wearing a very similar, custom-made pair for decades.
Made by West London shoemaker Anello & Davide [5] — one of the few brands that the queen trusts [6] — the loafers have a crocodile effect and slight heel, which allows her to stay comfortable as she goes about her day. In fact, Queen Elizabeth goes to great lengths to make sure her shoes won't give her any blisters: one of her staff members has the very delicate (and probably painful) job of breaking in her shoes before she wears them. According to the Evening Standard [7], that person has to wear a pair of beige cotton socks while doing so and is only allowed to walk on the carpet inside Buckingham Palace.
From train journeys and royal visits to her first official event alongside Meghan Markle [8], get a closer look at Queen Elizabeth's beloved loafers, then shop some similar iterations.
In March 2018, Queen Elizabeth II wore her trusty loafers with a pink coat and other black accessories.
Earlier that month, she wore them with a bright orange coat [9].
For the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey, which was also attended by Meghan Markle [10], the monarch wore her loafers with a burgundy coat and matching hat.
In February 2018, Queen Elizabeth was spotted in a light blue ensemble, which she accessorised with a black Launer handbag, matching gloves, and, of course, her black loafers.
On her way to Sandringham House for her Christmas break in 2017, the queen wore her shoes with a purple double-breasted coat.
In November 2017, she wore them with her usual black accessories and a periwinkle coat.
Gucci Leather Pumps
Gucci Leather Pumps [11] (£625)
Tod's Double T Quilted Leather Loafers
Tod's Double T Quilted Leather Loafers [12] (£465)
Office Fright Stud Loafers
Office Fright Stud Loafers [13] (£69)
Sam Edelman Loraine Leather Loafers
Sam Edelman Loraine Leather Loafers [14] (£120)
Carvela Comfort Patent Leather Loafers
Carvela Comfort Patent Leather Loafers [15] (£109)
Mulberry Fringed Leather Loafers
Mulberry Fringed Leather Loafers [16] (£332, originally £475)
Kurt Geiger London Leather Loafers
Kurt Geiger London Leather Loafers [17] (£69, originally £99)
Gucci Black Brixton Crushback Loafers
Gucci Black Brixton Crushback Loafers [18] (£540)