Starling 20 Black Licorice Loafer: Is This Height Right for You?
By Birdies | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Buying Guides
A 20mm outsole makes the Starling 20 a low-heel loafer you can wear all day. Here’s how to decide if the height, fit, and black leather upper suit your feet and routine.
Quick answer
Choose the Starling 20 if you want a polished black leather loafer with a low, stable 20mm outsole and a tailored penny-loafer shape. Skip it if you need a true flat, a wide toe box, or a higher heel for leg-lengthening.
What a 20mm outsole actually changes
A 20mm outsole sits in the low-heel range: enough lift to keep the shoe from feeling like a slipper, but not so much that it changes how you walk. The Starling 20 pairs that height with front rubber pods for extra tread, which matters on smooth office floors and city sidewalks.
Because the outsole is described as classic-looking, the shoe reads more like a traditional penny loafer than a fashion-forward platform. That makes it easier to wear with tailored trousers, dark denim, or midi skirts without the shoe dominating the outfit.
Where the Starling 20 fit can go wrong
The stitched interior is designed for flexibility, and the seven-layer comfort system adds cushioning underfoot. Those features help with break-in, but they do not replace getting the length right. A loafer that is too short will press the toes; one that is too long will slip at the heel.
The catalog lists only size as an available option, so you cannot adjust width. If you routinely need a wide fit or have a high instep, treat this as a limitation and size with that in mind rather than assuming the leather will stretch to compensate.
Black Licorice leather: versatile, but not invisible
Black leather is the most flexible color in a loafer wardrobe, but it shows scuffs and dust more readily than textured or patent finishes. The Starling 20’s hand-stitched detailing gives the upper some visual texture, which helps it avoid looking flat.
If your wardrobe is mostly warm-toned or you want a loafer for summer without socks, a lighter color may serve you better. Black Licorice works best as a three-season shoe for office, dinner, and travel outfits that already lean neutral or dark.
Decision rules for buying the Starling 20
- If you want a low heel that still feels polished: Choose the Starling 20 when you need a step above flat without a true heel. The 20mm outsole is low enough for commuting and long days on your feet. Check your current loafers: if they are completely flat and you want a slight lift, this is the right range.
- If you are between sizes: The Starling 20 offers only whole sizes, so use your usual loafer size as the starting point. If your feet tend to swell later in the day, size for the larger foot rather than the smaller one. Measure both feet at the end of the day before ordering.
- If you need a wide fit or have a high instep: Do not assume the leather will stretch enough to fix pressure across the top of the foot. Since width is not an option, consider a different style if you regularly need extra room. If you have returned loafers for tightness before, treat this as a sign to look elsewhere.
- If you want one shoe for work and weekends: Black Licorice leather suits both settings, but keep in mind that smooth black leather shows scuffs. Plan to wipe and condition it regularly if you wear it often. Budget for basic leather care if this will be your daily pair.
Product facts
- The Starling 20 Loafer - Black Licorice Leather: The Starling 20 has a 20mm classic-looking outsole and front rubber pods for extra tread. The low heel keeps you close to the ground while the rubber pods add grip where you need it most.
The Starling 20 Loafer - Black Licorice Leather - The Starling 20 Loafer - Black Licorice Leather: It uses the brand’s signature seven layers of cloud-like comfort and a stitched interior for flexibility. These features support all-day wear, but they do not change the shoe’s length, so sizing still matters.
Who the Starling 20 fits best
Best for
- Shoppers who want a low-heel black leather loafer for office and everyday wear
- People who prefer a tailored penny-loafer shape over a chunky platform
- Anyone who wants extra tread from front rubber pods without a heavy sole
Not for
- Shoppers who need a wide width or extra room across a high instep
- Anyone looking for a true flat with no heel lift
- People who want a higher heel for visible leg lengthening
