This Timeless Accessory Elevates Every Piece of Clothing in My Wardrobe

Everything looks more chic by association.

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing black Chanel loafers
(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

I’ve been surveying the loafer landscape for some time now—doing my due diligence, as one does—while on the hunt for a pair that feels fresh yet foundational, classic but undeniably current. I’ve cycled through all the usual suspects over the years, the heritage staples that reliably anchor a wardrobe. And yet, somehow, a Chanel loafer had never entered my rotation. A personal oversight, clearly.

Then I found these. And if you know, you know. That rare, lightning-bolt moment when the shoe doesn’t just complement your closet—it clarifies it. As a tall woman who has officially entered her “strategic flat shoe investment” era, this pair slid seamlessly into my long-term vision. Polished without being precious, timeless without feeling sleepy, they felt less like an impulse buy and more like a sound sartorial decision. Practically responsible. Emotionally thrilling.

Brooke Ely Danielson wearing black Chanel loafers

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

What makes this loafer exceptional is its personality. It has presence. It elevates even the most low-effort outfit into something intentional—what I can only describe as a polished, nerdy-chic energy—while still being versatile enough to take me from back-to-back meetings straight to dinner with my boyfriend, no wardrobe change (or apology) required. I never feel underdressed, but I also never feel like I’m trying too hard. The holy grail.

Brooke Ely Danielson

(Image credit: Brooke Ely Danielson)

They shine most when paired with tailoring—think suiting, sharp trousers, and structured silhouettes—but they’re equally at home with leggings and socks, cropped flare pants, or a circle skirt that begs for a little contrast. It’s the kind of shoe that quietly does the heavy lifting, making everything else in your outfit look more considered by association.

Sadly, the black ones I own are no longer available online—but you can still order the white version, or similar pairs in black.

How I Style Them

Brooke Ely Danielson
Contributing Editor

Brooke has held editorial positions at Shape, Glamour, and Vogue, as well as contributed to In Style, Well + Good, Mind Body Green and Aspen Magazine. Brooke has also consulted for several brands, including Aztech Mountain and Tory Burch. Brooke has also made on-air appearances on the TODAY show, Fox5 among other media outlets while in her role as the Fashion & Lifestyle Director at Shape magazine. She runs the Substack 12 Seeds.