Sizing, Fit & First Impressions –

In a wardrobe full of hardworking staples, the right pair of loafers can be that piece that instantly lifts any look. Undeniably polished, it’s a shoe silhouette that in my mind, has always held a sort of sartorial authority. The Magnanni Charlotte Loafers are one of my latest additions, which I was drawn to for the textural interest from the luxe mock croc finish, and the sleek profile of the silhouette. And it’s all in the details, isn’t it? Often the difference between a basic, and a basic which feels elevated. I’ve been road testing these quietly in the background over the past few weeks, and thought today we could break down how they’ve been fairing on rotation (along with fit notes!).

Wearing Everlane coat, Everlane barrel leg jeans, Magnanni Charlotte Loafers, Sezane bag

Sizing & Fit

Kicking off with sizing/fit notes as I know that’s the tea you’re all here for. For years I’ve pegged myself as an EU40 – translating to an AU9, US9 or UK7 – but wide across the foot. More recently, I’ve started to notice that my feet are broadening further, which I can only attribute to getting older. So while I usually will opt for EU40 as first point of call, I have started to occasionally go up a half size as that usually gives me more breathing room across the foot.

I consulted the Magnanni sizing chart to determine best fit (step one when trying any new brand for the first time), and based on this could see an EU40/UK7 translated to a US10 in their shoes. The notes do say to size up a half size if you’re new to their shoes; sage advice though the US10.5 was sold out so I decided to take a gamble with the US10. I figured being leather, they were bound to give a little, anyway.

Out of the box, they felt a touch snug – particularly across the vamp – but not uncomfortably so. While the leather is structured, it does soften up reasonably swiftly; by the second wear, they already felt more accommodating on the foot. It doesn’t take long for them to reach that perfect “second skin” phase. That said, for wider feet I do think often it’s better to have that space within the shoe so if I were to get these again, I’d opt for the US10.5. 

With that in mind, if you have wider feet, I’d definitely recommend going up half a size. The construction is regular width, and while the leather has malleability, it’ll be a more comfortable break-in if you give yourself a little extra room. For regular or narrow widths, your usual size should work fine. Just expect that standard leather loafer snugness at first.

First Impressions of the Magnanni Charlotte Loafers

Let’s start with the obvious: these shoes are beautiful. I opted for the mock croc leather; a rich, embossed design that adds a touch of texture, but doesn’t feel at all flashy (as some horse bit styles can do). The leather has a slight glossiness, which combined with the croc finish serves to elevate the otherwise minimal design

In person, the almond toe is flattering but not too narrow, and the sleek silhouette brings balance back to a more voluminous pair of pants of jeans.

Perhaps the details I’m most happy to report, is that they haven’t given me a single blister – always the unknown when wearing new shoes for the first time.

By the way, one of my top tips for breaking in shoes is to wear them around the house for the first few wears; it helps to mitigate against potential blisters, but also means you can pop on a thick sock to expedite the process of softening the leather gently. 

From a styling standpoint, I like to lean in on the inherent masculinity of a loafer, pairing them with denim or trousers over skirts and dresses. It’s a simple way to make a casual outfit look more polished, and because of the slim profile of the shoe, it works both with cropped or full length styles

About Magnanni

Before I wrap up this review, I think it’s worth touching on the brand itself. Magnanni has been crafting men’s (and now women’s) shoes in Spain since 1954, and they’ve stayed a family-run business for three generations. What I find especially compelling is their dedication to preserving artisanal craftsmanship. Each pair of shoes is made in their family-owned factory in Almansa (which FYI, is a region with deep shoemaking heritage).

There’s a reverence in their process that really comes through in the final product. From hand-finishing techniques to the way they shape their lasts, you can feel the thought and care baked into every detail. The Charlotte loafer is a beautiful example of that balance between traditional craftsmanship and modern styling.

Final Verdict; Are they *worth* it?

So, would I recommend the Magnanni Charlotte Loafers? For the girl who relies on loafers as a wardrobe staple, absolutely. These feel elevated and luxurious, yet still approachable enough that they can be worn both for work, weekend, or a night out. 

And I think the thing here for me, is that they’re an excellent example of what I consider to be an elevated basic. Wearable, but not trend-driven; a silhouette that feels more timeless and current. A subtle detail I love, but is only obvious to its wearer is the lurex trim that runs along the edge of the insole. It’s special touches like this that feel incredibly thoughtful.

Just keep in mind my notes on sizing – a regular fit across the foot so for those with wider fit (or who tend to sit between sizes), I would suggest going up a half size for a more comfortable break-in. For standard or narrow feet, your usual size should fit just right.

With extended wear, the creases that start to form across the toes as the leather flexes with each step will deepen, giving them that truly lived in look – the mark of a shoe well worn. Which to me, is all just part of the charm of adding a well chosen piece into your wardrobe. 

As someone with a penchant for loafers, it’s easy to see how the Magnanni Charlotte Loafers can slip so seamlessly into your wardrobe, feeling like they immediately belong. If you’re looking for a loafer that combines craftsmanship and polish with everyday versatility, this one is well worth considering.