In this Aurélien City Loafers Review, I explore the City Loafer 2.0—a refined slip-on crafted in black French suede that perfectly captures Aurélien’s idea of smart luxury. Having reviewed the brand years ago, it’s refreshing to revisit and see how they’ve evolved—maturing their craftsmanship, presentation, and aesthetic into something that blends everyday comfort and quiet elegance.
👉 Watch the Unboxing Video:
About the Brand
Founded in 2015, Aurélien built its identity around the concept of smart luxury—beautifully made, accessible footwear and clothing that balance refinement with ease. Their products are crafted in Italy from French calf suede and fine European materials, showcasing a commitment to understated sophistication without the excessive markups of designer fashion.
Their online store feels like a playground for the style-conscious—clean designs, tone-on-tone colorways, and that relaxed yet elevated aesthetic that defines the modern Mediterranean wardrobe. It is very much the adult version of being a ‘kid in the candy shop’!
Model Overview: The City Loafer 2.0
The City Loafer is not quite a loafer in the traditional sense—it’s more of a slip-on chukka hybrid, designed for easy wear. This pair features black French calf suede (marketed as Softey Suede) on a black rubber latex sole, creating a subtle, tone-on-tone look that’s both elegant and urban.
Retailing for $490 USD, the shoe is made in Italy, available in sizes EU 39–47 (US 6–14), and offered in a wide array of colors. Aurélien’s genius idea to source soles that color-match the uppers gives the shoes a refined, dress-up-or-down appeal—something that sets them apart from typical white-soled “dress sneakers.”
I do not love black suede shoes with a white sole, but I love them in an all black version.
Fit & Comfort
I took a size 41, as Aurélien doesn’t produce half sizes. My usual dress shoe size is 40.5, and the 41 fit perfectly—snug but not tight. The City Loafer hugs the foot well, with no heel slip or looseness.
The insole is removable, which is a bonus for those using orthotics. It’s cushioned without being spongy—what I’d describe as a firm comfort base that maintains shape over time.
For sizing: Stick to your standard dress shoe size or half-size up. Do not size down, as they will most likely be too short.
Quality & Construction Details
- Made in Italy
- Upper: 100% French calf suede (Softey Suede)
- Lining: Soft veg tanned leather
- Sole: Black rubber latex (tone-on-tone)
- Insole: Cushioned and removable
- Price: $490 USD
- Size Range: EU 39–47 (US 6–14)
The craftsmanship is neat and consistent, the suede is luxuriously soft, and the last shape—a smart round, almost almond—avoids the overly bulky proportions seen in many casual shoes. Overall, it’s a sleek, wearable design that easily transitions from jeans to tailored trousers.
Value
Aurélien sits at an interesting price point—affordable luxury. At $490, these are not inexpensive, but when you consider European craftsmanship, premium materials, and polished branding, the value holds up well against designer competitors charging twice as much. What used to be $300, around 20 years ago, is now $500.
They also offer tone-on-tone soles and a wide variety of colorways, making the City Loafer an excellent choice for men who prefer subtle sophistication over contrast-heavy sneakers and/or hybrid dress shoes (i.e., Cole Haan and the like).
Final Thoughts
Five years after my first Aurélien review (I said eight in the video, as time often eludes me), I’m impressed with how the brand has grown and matured. The City Loafer 2.0 captures what modern footwear should be—refined, comfortable, and versatile enough for both smart and casual outfits.
Despite mixed reviews online (one of my blog posts) regarding customer service, my personal experience with Aurélien has always been positive. As does their Trust Pilot score seem to suggest. Their products deliver consistent quality and thoughtful design.
If you’re looking for an elegant alternative to chunky “luxury sneakers,” these are for you. Beautiful materials, modern styling, and timeless restraint—the Aurélien City Loafer represents understated European class at its best.
I hope that you have enjoyed this Aurélien City Loafers Review and that if you have been thinking about grabbing a pair from this brand, it provides you with the necessary information to be more comfortable in that decision!
Learn more here: https://aurelien-online.com/collections/city-loafers
—Justin FitzPatrick, The Shoe Snob
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Have you ever tried Samuel Hubbard Footwea? I hear they are comfortable and well made.
I have not. Not the type of shoes I am interested in
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