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 stylist experts, we’ve answered some of the most frequent loafer styling questions, what to look for when you’re browsing and, of course, their 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
G.H.Bass Weejuns Whitney Loafers
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 explains. 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.
$175 at Nordstrom
$175 at Anthropologie
$175 at Bloomingdale’s
Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer
“These classic black leather loafers with gold hardware are a client favorite,” shares 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.
$150 From $75 at Nordstrom
$150 at Bloomingdale’s
$150 at Amazon
Dolce Vita Beny Loafer
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.
$130 at Bloomingdale’s
From $130 at Nordstrom
$130 at DSW
Circus by Sam Edelman Susie Platform Loafer
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.”
$100 $40 at Circus by Sam Edelman
Madewell x G.H.Bass Mary Jane Lug Weejuns Loafers
“This collaboration is one you don’t want to miss,” shares Kara. “These Mary Jane shoes in a rich wine color combine a comfortable lug-sole with a feminine touch,” she explains. “Ideal for any terrain, they make perfect commuter shoes.”
$195 at Madewell
Blondo Waterproof Penny Loafer
“Not only is this loafer waterproof to keep your feet dry,” explains Kara, “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,” she shares.
Maguire Sintra Bambi Loafer
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 shares, and pictures styling them “with socks and a cute dress or oversized vintage denim.”
$250 at Maguire
Steve Madden Lavine Lug Sole Loafer Flats
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 which gives it an added level of comfort and stability — perfect for everyday wear.
$99 at Macy’s
$100 at Steve Madden
Sebago Classic Will Tassel Penny Loafers
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 explains.
$250 at Neiman Marcus
$245 $169 at Ssense
Coach Leah Loafer
A platform sole is a great option if you’re looking for the comfort of a classic loafer, but with that little extra bit of dressiness. Wallace loves the timeless shape of this option from Coach.
$195 at Amazon
$195 From $117 at Nordstrom
Ayede Ruth Loafers
“I absolutely love this brand,” explains Wallace. “They’re always comfortable and well made, not to mention very chic,” she shares. “I’m loving this chalk color for a fresh alternative to classic black.” Although, they do come in a sleek black leather too.
$405 $219 at Ssense
Boden Iris Ghillie Heeled Loafers
The perfect way to spice up your loafers? A stylish hot pink hue or leopard print, of course — these come in both statement-making colors. “The block heel combines comfort with a sleek design,” explains Kara. “While they’ll look great with black pants or a crisp white blouse, don’t hesitate to experiment with different patterns and colors.”
From $190 at Boden
Sandro Deilan Slip On Buckled Loafer Flats
Perfectly chunky yet chic, Wallace recommends this pair of slip-on loafers for their “fun silhouette and excellent silver buckle detailing.”
$475 $333 at Bloomingdale’s
G.H.Bass Weejuns Esther Loafers
“The kiltie is my favorite style,” shares 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 explains. “The color goes with denim, blacks and neutrals,” and “will achieve that perfect lived-in look early on.”
$185 at Anthropologie
Coach Natalie Loafer
“These would pair great with summer dresses and a cropped jacket in the fall or springtime,” explains Wallace, who recommends this chic tan suede, heeled option from Coach.
$195 at Amazon
$195 at Zappos
$195 at Bloomingdale’s
J.Crew Monk-Strap Shoes
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.
$248 at J.Crew
Vivaia Audrey Round-Toe Embroidered Loafers
“Stylish and comfortable with a wide toe-box, these are perfect for any occasion,” shares 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.
$97 From $79 at Vivaia
Camper Milah Loafer Mule
“These heeled clogs are youthful, super comfortable and definitely noteworthy,” shares Bonavota, who calls this pair of loafers and the brand overall a favorite of hers.
$190 at Nordstrom
The best loafers for men
G.H.Bass Lincoln Loafer
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.
$185 at Nordstrom
$185 at Bloomingdale’s
$185 at Revolve
Vince Grant Loafers
“These are the perfect suede camel loafer for daily wear,” shares Wallace. The convenient slip-on design and stylish silhouette and material make them a foolproof shoe to have in your year-round wardrobe rotation.
$350 $245 at Amazon
$350 From $262 at Nordstrom
Morjas The Tassel Loafer
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.
$380 at Morjas
Sebago Men’s Classic Dan
Wallace calls this “a classic everyday loafer,” and we couldn’t agree more. Not only do they look sleek, they’re available in both regular and wide sizes, are waterproof, 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.
$200 at Amazon
Dr. Martens Adrian Snaffle Pebble Grain Leather Kiltie Loafers
“Dr. Martens loafers will never go out of style,” shares 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.
$160 at Dr. Martens
G.H.Bass Larson Leather Penny Loafer
Wallace describes these penny loafers as “a gorgeous pair to last a lifetime.” The classic style is available in a couple great colors, from this stunning whiskey color to Wallace’s favorite — a rich wine shade.
$175 at Nordstrom
$175 at Bloomingdale’s
Sperry Davenport Venetian Driver
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.
$110 at Amazon
Camper Walden Loafer
Bonavota recommends this modern, stylishly clunky loafer that can be worn casually or dressed up. “Camper shoes are always super lightweight and comfortable,” she shares. “I can see these being worn with high-waisted black pleated trousers and a tucked in tee, or shorts and a loose-fitting tee.”
$199 at Bloomingdale’s
$199 From $139 at Nordstrom
Steve Madden Men’s Gaddis Loafer
“I think these are the perfect horsebit loafers,” explains Bonavota. 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 a white pant and linen shirt for a preppier warm-weather look.
$130 $80 at Amazon
Kurt Geiger London Hayes Tassel Loafer
“I really love a good tassel moment and these are it,” shares Wallace, who loves the chunky lugged sole. “You really can’t go wrong with Kurt Geiger,” she explains. “Trust the Brits to make a comfortable and fashionable everyday loafer.”
$265 at Nordstrom
G.H.Bass Men’s Larson Venetian Weejuns Loafer
“These shoes last forever,” shares Bonavota, “a definite closet staple.” Described as sophisticated and timeless, she explains that this style is a sleeker, updated version of the classic G.H. Bass loafer.
$175 at G.H.Bass
Sandro Leonard Loafers
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 50% off.
$475 $238 at Bloomingdale’s
What to look for in a loafer
“When choosing a loafer, prioritize comfort, quality and versatility,” explains Kara. “A good loafer should feel like a second skin, with proper cushioning and support,” she shares. “Consider your foot shape and choose a narrow or wider fit that best suits you,” adds Wallace. “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 explains.
“For me, the most important qualities in a loafer are the craftsmanship and quality of leather,” shares Bonavota. 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,” shares Wallace. “I like to stick to neutrals that can go with any outfit.”
Most importantly, “find a loafer that works for your aesthetic,” shares Bonavota. “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 just 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,” explains Kara, “while a thinner sole complements dressier outfits.”
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