Forever Link Buckled Platform Lug Sole Loafers | Charcoal / 10 100600435018290

How to measure — get the right fit & product dimensions

Measure your foot (for sizing)

1. Tools: a piece of paper, a pencil, a ruler or tape measure, and a flat wall.
2. Place the paper on the floor with one edge touching the wall. Stand on the paper with your heel against the wall and your weight on the foot (standing).
3. Mark the longest point of your foot (the tip of the longest toe). Measure from the wall (heel) to that mark. Record the length in centimeters (cm) and inches. Do both feet and use the larger measurement.
4. Measure width: wrap a tape measure around the widest part of the foot (across the ball). Record the circumference or measure the straight across width at that point.
5. Measure instep height (if you have a high instep): with the tape measure, record the vertical distance from the floor to the highest point on the top of your foot while standing.
6. Notes: measure wearing the socks you plan to wear with the loafers and measure at the end of the day when feet are slightly larger. Compare your measurements to the retailer’s size chart and allow about 0.5–1.0 cm (≈1/4–3/8") of toe room for comfortable fit.

Measure the shoe (for product listings or returns)

1. Insole length: remove the insole (if removable) and measure from the inside back of the heel to the inside tip of the toe.
2. Outsole length: measure the full length on the bottom of the sole from heel edge to toe edge.
3. Width at the ball: measure across the widest point of the sole at the ball of the foot.
4. Heel height: measure vertically from the bottom of the heel to the top surface where the heel of the foot sits (inside).
5. Platform height: measure from the bottom of the sole to the bottom of the upper at the thickest platform area (usually under the forefoot).
6. Lug depth: measure the tread depth from the deepest valley of the lug to the top of the tread surface.
7. Opening circumference: measure around the shoe opening where your foot enters to check fit for higher insteps.
8. Weight: weigh one shoe and/or a pair to give customers an idea of how heavy the footwear feels.
9. Tip: state measurements in both centimeters and inches and include whether the insole is removable and if the shoe runs true to size, narrow, or wide.

Materials — what this style is typically made from and how to identify

Loafers with a buckled platform lug sole are commonly built from combinations of the following components. For exact materials check the product description tag or label.

• Upper
  • Full-grain or corrected-grain leather — durable, develops a patina, breathable.
  • Polished/calf leather — smooth, slightly glossy, easy to wipe clean.
  • Suede or nubuck — soft, matte finish; more delicate and requires special care.
  • Vegan/synthetic leather (PU) — uniform finish, easier to clean but less breathable.
• Lining
  • Leather lining — comfortable and breathable, common in higher-end pairs.
  • Textile lining (polyester/cotton blends) — breathable and cost-effective.
• Insole
  • Cushioned foam, memory foam or latex with a leather or textile cover — provides comfort and shock absorption.
  • Removable insoles are common for adding orthotics or replacements.
• Outsole & platform
  • Rubber or thermoplastic rubber (TPR) lug sole — durable, grippy, weather-resistant.
  • EVA or stacked rubber midsole for lightweight platform height and cushioning.
• Hardware
  • Metal buckle (nickel-plated, brass-tone, or matte finishes). Look for plating quality and secure rivets.
• Construction
  • Glued/cemented construction is common for platform loafers; some higher-end versions may use stitched welts.

How to identify: genuine leather smells natural and shows grain variations; synthetic leather feels more uniform and may have a plastic-like backing. Suede has a nap and changes tone when brushed. If a listing does not specify, check the product tag, packaging, or contact the retailer for the exact composition.

About this model — design & fit notes

• Design highlights: Slip-on loafer silhouette with a decorative link-and-buckle vamp and a thick lug sole for extra height and traction. Sleek but bold — mixes classic loafer details with a contemporary chunky sole.
• Comfort & construction: Padded footbed and supportive midsole intended for all-day wear; rubber lug sole adds shock absorption and grip.
• Fit guidance: Most platform loafers fit true to size in length but can feel snug across the forefoot at first because of the stiffer sole. If you are between sizes or have a wider forefoot, consider going up half a size. Removing or replacing the insole can offer extra room or more arch support.
• Break-in: New lug soles and thicker platforms can be slightly stiff; expect a short break-in period of a few days of gradual wear.
• Use cases: Great for everyday city wear, commuting, and transitional seasons where extra traction and a little height are welcome.

Care guide — keep them lovely longer

General maintenance

• Wipe off dirt after each wear with a soft brush or a dry cloth. For stubborn dirt in the tread, use a stiff brush or a toothpick to remove debris from the lug grooves.
• Rotate shoes — don’t wear the same pair every day to let materials breathe and recover.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use shoe trees or stuff with acid-free tissue to keep shape.

Leather (smooth) care

1. Remove surface dust with a soft brush or dry cloth.
2. Clean spots with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed; do not saturate the leather.
3. Condition every 6–12 weeks depending on wear frequency using a quality leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking.
4. Polish with color-matched cream polish for shine and to cover small scuffs.
5. Apply a water & stain protector spray for added resistance in wet weather.

Suede / nubuck care

1. Brush regularly with a suede brush to restore the nap.
2. Tackle stains with a suede eraser or a small amount of white vinegar on a cloth (test first).
3. Protect with a suede-specific spray; avoid heavy wet cleaning.

Faux leather / synthetic care

1. Wipe with a soft damp cloth and mild soap.
2. Avoid oil-based conditioners; use vinyl or PU-safe protectants if desired.

Rubber lug sole care

• Clean with warm water and a brush; remove lodged stones and debris from the treads regularly.
• For grime, use a soft brush and a mild detergent, rinse, and air dry.

Quick fixes

• Salt stains: mix one part white vinegar to two parts water, dampen a cloth, blot, then wipe with plain water and air dry.
• Oil stains (on leather): sprinkle cornstarch or talcum powder to absorb oil, leave overnight, then brush off.
• Scuffs: gently buff shallow scuffs on leather with a damp cloth; use matching polish for deeper marks.

Avoid: machine washing, prolonged exposure to direct heat, and leaving leather wet without drying properly. Always test any product on a hidden area first.

Style tips — how to wear Forever Link Buckled Platform Lug Sole Loafers

• Smart-casual / Office: Pair with cropped tailored trousers, a crisp button-down and a structured blazer for a polished, modern office look. Add a thin ankle sock or sheer tights in cooler months.
• Preppy: Combine with a pleated midi skirt or culottes and a lightweight knit or collared sweater. A patterned sock peeking above the shoe gives a playful finish.
• Casual weekend: Wear with straight-leg or boyfriend jeans cuffed above the ankle and a relaxed tee or trench coat. The lug sole adds an edge to otherwise simple denim looks.
• Feminine contrast: Soften the chunky sole by pairing with a midi slip dress or a floral midi skirt—mixing feminine fabrics with the loafer’s structure creates a balanced outfit.
• Edgy / Street: Match with a leather mini skirt or fitted trousers and an oversized coat or bomber. Add bold socks or patterned tights for extra attitude.
• Accessories: Match your metal hardware (buckle) with belts or bag hardware for a cohesive finish. Chunky jewelry complements the loafer’s boldness.
• Proportion tips: Because the platform adds height, choose cropped pant lengths or skirts that end mid-calf to showcase the shoe. For long trousers, opt for a straight or slightly tapered leg to avoid bulk at the hem.