Loafers for women and men quick picks
Bit loafers for women: Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers
Penny loafers for women: Blondo Waterproof Penny Loafers
Bit loafers for men: G.H.Bass Lincoln Loafers
Driving loafers for men: Sperry Davenport Venetian Drivers
A little research goes a long way when it comes to finding the best loafers for you. From being the perfect pair of seasonal footwear that can take you from the office to dinner, comfortable shoes you can slip on and off or a fashion-forward take on a classic silhouette, loafers are loved for their balance of form and function, versatility and effortless style.
And with fall just around the corner, there’s no better time to shop around. With the help of our style experts, we’ve answered some of the most frequent loafer-styling questions, explained what to look for when you’re browsing and, of course, shared some favorite picks. In need of some fall footwear inspiration? We’ve also covered some of the best boots for fall and expert-recommended ankle boots, perfect for back-to-school season or just a little wardrobe refresh.
The best loafers for women
Fashion stylist Jaclyn Bonavota's number-one loafer pick? This classic from stylist-favorite brand G.H. Bass. It’s “the perfect penny loafer to be worn with anything and everything,” she says. If you like your loafers with a little extra height, it’s also available in a heeled version, which is one of celebrity stylist Cher Coulter's top picks.
“These classic black leather loafers with gold hardware are a client favorite,” says NYC-based personal stylist Shabrina Kara. “They effortlessly blend style and comfort, perfect for both office and weekend wear.” Our senior lifestyle editor Tamara Kraus confirms that they're the most comfortable flats she's owned. Plus, the style comes in over a dozen other colors from brown tweed to faux snakeskin.
For the minimalists, Bonavota recommends this option from Dolce Vita. With its modern cut, chic square toe and stunning Ivory color, you get the polished look of a high-end style without the luxury price tag. It also comes in six other colors.
Associate testing writer Gareen Puglia is hopping on the loafer trend with these platform shoes. "I love how the classic loafer style is complemented by the unique flared heel," she says. "Not only are these shoes adorable but they are comfortable to walk around the office in. I like to wear them with ruffle socks for extra support. They remind me of luxury loafers but are a fraction of the cost."
“This collaboration is one you don’t want to miss,” Kara says. “These Mary Jane?shoes in a rich wine color combine a comfortable lug sole with a feminine touch. Ideal for any terrain, they make perfect commuter shoes.”
“Not only is this loafer waterproof to keep your feet dry,” Kara says, “but it also doesn't compromise on style.” With the added benefit of memory foam cushioning, “it's the perfect choice for all-day wear.”
Bonavota recommends this fun pair of loafers for the gal that “loves to have fun with fashion” and doesn’t take herself too seriously. “I'm obsessed with the pony hair and lug sole,” she says and pictures styling them “with socks and a cute dress or oversized vintage denim.”
If loafers seem a little preppy for your style, it could be worth trying out a cooler, slightly distressed option like this one. Recommended by editorial and celebrity stylist Fabio Immediato, this slightly more grunge-feeling loafer boasts a durable lug sole that gives it an added level of comfort and stability — perfect for everyday wear.
Carlee Wallace, an LA-based editorial and celebrity stylist, is a fan of the two-tone and tassel-detailing on these moc-toe loafers. “It gives them a lot of visual interest while still being super wearable and neutral,” she says.
A platform sole is a great option if you’re looking for the comfort of a classic loafer but a little extra bit of dressiness. Wallace loves the timeless shape of this option from Coach.
“I absolutely love this brand,” Wallace says. “They’re always comfortable and well made, not to mention very chic. I’m loving this chalk color for a fresh alternative to classic black.”?Although, they do come in a sleek black leather too.
The perfect way to spice up your loafers? A stylish hot-pink hue or leopard print, of course! And these Boden loafers come in both statement-making colors. “The block heel combines comfort with a sleek design,” Kara says. “While they’ll look great with black pants or a crisp white blouse, don’t hesitate to experiment with different patterns and colors.”
Wallace recommends this perfectly chunky yet chic pair of slip-on loafers for their “fun silhouette and excellent silver buckle detailing.”
“The kiltie is my favorite style,” says Coulter, who loves the personality and classic yet cool aesthetic of this loafer. “I love the crimped front edges, the wine color and the tassels,” she adds. “The color goes with denim, blacks and neutrals” and “will achieve that perfect lived-in look early on.”
“These would pair great with summer dresses and a cropped jacket in the fall or springtime,” says Wallace, who recommends this chic tan suede heeled option from Coach.
This menswear-inspired monk-strap shoe is a fun vintage-feeling twist on your everyday black loafer. The leather is designed to get even better with age and wear, and the sole is durable enough for daily wear.
“Stylish and comfortable with a wide toe-box, these are perfect for any occasion,” says Kara, who loves the unique cheetah design of this slipper loafer. And as with many of Vivaia’s footwear options, these also boast a supportive natural herbal insole.
“These heeled clogs are youthful, super comfortable and definitely noteworthy,” says Bonavota, who calls this pair of loafers and the brand overall a favorite of hers.
The best loafers for men
Both Immediato and Wallace recommend this classic bit loafer. While Immediato’s a fan of the stunning wine colorway, Wallace “loves the classic black for both casual and dressier outfitting.” Plus, it’s available in wide sizes, which is always a great option to have.
“These are the perfect suede camel loafer for daily wear,” Wallace says. The convenient slip-on design and stylish silhouette and material make them a foolproof shoe to have in your year-round wardrobe rotation.
Immediato recommends this timeless tassel loafer, which boasts high-quality craftsmanship and a beautiful leather that reviewers can’t get enough of. Dress it up or dress it down — either way you really can’t go wrong.
Wallace calls this “a classic everyday loafer,” and we couldn’t agree more. Not only do they look sleek but they’re are waterproof, are made with a supportive leather sole and feature a sturdy rubber heel for support, traction and durability. Plus, it’s available in both regular and wide sizes.
“Dr. Martens loafers will never go out of style,” says Wallace, who calls it a “tried and trusted” brand. “I love the pebble texture and silver hardware on these.”?They also come in smooth leather or a soft leather version with a tassel.
Wallace describes these penny loafers as “a gorgeous pair to last a lifetime.” The classic style is available in a couple of great colors, from this stunning Whiskey color to Wallace’s favorite — a rich Wine.
A driving loafer like this option from Sperry is a great alternative to sandals. They’re just as easy to slip on and off but look a lot more polished, and even office-appropriate depending on dress codes.
Bonavota recommends this modern, stylishly clunky loafer that can be worn casually or dressed up. “Camper shoes are always super lightweight and comfortable,” she says. “I can see these being worn with high-waisted black pleated trousers and a tucked-in tee, or shorts and a loose-fitting tee.”
“I think these are the perfect horse-bit loafers,” Bonavota says. She recommends wearing them with a tailored double-breasted suit for a more formal event, with dress pants and a shirt for work, or even with white pants and a linen shirt for a preppier warm weather look.?
“I really love a good tassel moment, and these are it,” says Wallace, who loves the chunky lugged sole. “You really can't go wrong with Kurt Geiger. Trust the Brits to make a comfortable and fashionable everyday loafer.”
“These shoes last forever,” Bonavota says, adding that they are “a definite closet staple.” Described as sophisticated and timeless, this style is a sleeker, updated version of the classic G.H. Bass loafer.
Bonavota describes this slipper loafer as “the perfect soft leather loafer for men who enjoy a minimal, elegant, yet contemporary way of dressing.” The style is currently nearly 50% off.
What to look for in a pair of loafers
According to Kara, “When choosing a loafer, prioritize comfort, quality and versatility. A good loafer should feel like a second skin, with proper cushioning and support.” Wallace suggests that you also “consider your foot shape and choose a narrow or wider fit that best suits you. Having blisters is never fun and choosing the wrong style can cause this to happen.” Coulter recommends trying them on and walking around whenever possible. “Make sure they’re not too stiff, and that they look nice from the top and side,” she says.
“For me, the most important qualities in a loafer are the craftsmanship and quality of leather,” Bonavota says. Kara agrees, adding that “quality materials and construction” ensure your loafers will last beyond the current season. “Beyond that I would say choosing a practical color is a good idea,” Wallace says. “I like to stick to neutrals that can go with any outfit.”
But first and foremost, “find a loafer that works for your aesthetic,” Bonavota says. “Whether that be a super-chunky sole if you happen to have a more maximalist sense of style” or a classic penny loafer “if you’re into a classic, minimalist style,” it’s about finding a pair that you don’t have to work hard to get wear out of. Generally speaking, “a thicker sole offers better support for everyday wear,” Kara says, “while a thinner sole complements dressier outfits.”
