Emma Childs
Lofty descriptors like "timeless" and "classic" barely scratch the surface of what makes the best loafers so irresistible. Far beyond a fleeting seasonal shoe trend, the academia-inspired silhouette carries a lifestyle. Depending on how you wear them, you can fully embrace the preppy aesthetic or proceed with subtler loafers-centric outfits. This winter, loafers have become the cornerstone of my footwear collection, surpassing even my most beloved white sneakers in versatility—especially when paired with cozy socks.
But there's a reason loafers frequently resurface in conversations around "cores" and aesthetics: they’re the rare, seasonless shoe that evolves alongside your personal style.
Longtime loafer devotee Laurel Pantin—writer, author, and creator of the Earl Earl newsletter—understands their enduring charm better than most. When I was in high school, I found a pair of gold loafers at a thrift store in my hometown. In 2002, metallic shoes weren’t a thing,” she tells Marie Claire. "They were honestly a bit orthopedic and granny-esque, but I loved them and wore them nonstop. I became known for them at school—so much so that my AIM screen name was GoldenLoafers." After a brief break from the style, Pantin rekindled her love for loafers and now swears by understated staples like The Row’s coveted Soft Loafers as a go-to.
The moral of this shoe story? You may outgrow the metallic loafers of your youth, but the style will always have a place in your wardrobe—reinvented but never replaced. We also tapped Caroline Maguire, Senior Fashion Director at Shopbop, for her expert insights on this year’s trending pairs, the brands redefining the loafer game, and clever ways to style them throughout the seasons.
The Best Loafers at a Glance
Marie Claire's Favorite Loafers
- Best Overall Loafers: Jamie Haller The Loafers
- Best Designer Loafers: Gucci Jordaan Loafers
- Best Cult-Favorite Loafers: Vagabond Shoemakers Kenova Loafers
- Best Classic Loafers: G.H. Bass Women's Whitney Weejuns
- Best Affordable Loafers: Franco Sarto Balin Lug Sole Loafers
Shop the Best Loafers
Celebrities like Emily Ratajkowski have worn Jamie Haller's penny loafers for years. (Pantin also co-signed them in her newsletter, and Maguire said she's "beyond obsessed with [the brand's] shapes and luxe fabrics.") Traditional men’s penny loafers inspire the low-key design, are handmade in Italy, and hug your foot in all the right places for a glove-like fit. The buttery-soft leather is so comfortable to wear you’ll think you’re wearing house slippers. They’re available in sizes 35 through 42 and come in several colors and fabrications, from brown suede to colorblock black and white. The sizing does vary by material, but the brand makes it very clear how to order your best size.
What We Love: Comes in eight colors; lightweight design; comfortable with no break-in period.
What We Don't: Doesn't come in half-sizes.
Size Range: EU sizes 35 through 42.
What is there to say about Gucci's horse-bit loafers that haven’t already been said? Yes, they're at a higher price point, but they’re also classic and trendless. The sleek silhouette, the classic gold hardware, and the relaxed leather feel have all made this loafer land on my shopping list. Katie Holmes is also a fan—she incorporated her horsebit loafers into her cool, bustling downtown mom aesthetic. Plus, they come with a covert styling hack built-in: fold down the leather back of the shoe, and it becomes a stately slip-on mule. Try them in sizes 34 through 42, including half sizes.
What We Love: Come in several colors; no break-in period; celebrity favorite; comes in half-sizes; easy to style.
What We Don't: The back of the shoe can lose its shape due to its foldable design.
Size Range: EU sizes 34 through 42, including half sizes.
If you're looking for a pair of loafers that can go from a day at the office to after-work drinks with friends, meet the Kenova Loafer from Vagabond Shoemakers. Their sturdy soles will make your feet feel supported and stable even after eight hours of wear time. Plus, the smooth leather finish is easy to keep clean, so they always look brand-new. You can shop them in sizes six through 12. Reviewers claim that they run true to size, are good for wide feet, and don’t have a painful break-in period. Win, win, and win.
What We Love: Runs true-to-size; no break-in period; good for wide feet.
What We Don't: Doesn't come in half sizes.
Size Range: US sizes 6 through 12.
It doesn't get more classic than this pair of black Whitney Weejuns by G.H. Bass. They've been worn by everyone from Gwyneth Paltrow (in The Royal Tenenbaums) to under-the-radar fashion editors (in their everyday street style). Available in either deep black or a dark merlot, these are the standard in penny loafers for women: They have an understated, rounded toe and are crafted from the highest-quality materials.
Shoppers agree that they're worth the investment. One glowing five-star review said that the loafers "are the most comfortable and versatile shoes you can buy," so you just know that they'll be great for long days spent on your feet. Plus, you can shop them in sizes 5 through 11.
What We Love: Comes in six colors; comes in half-sizes; runs true to size.
What We Don't: Some reviewers found the leather to be stiff; some reviewers said they required a break-in period.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes (marked as "Medium").
Marie Claire Associate Commerce Editor Brooke Knappenberger wasn't fully sold on the loafer trend, but this Franco Sarto pair convinced her to at least give it a try. So far, it's a wardrobe winner. "I love how this pair adds a few inches to my height without being overly chunky," she says. "Plus, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and comfort. If you want to try loafer trend for yourself without breaking the bank, definitely turn to Franco Sarto for this pair."
What We Love: Editor-approved; comes in six colors; rated for comfort; lightweight considering the platform.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say they run small.
Size Range: US sizes 5.5 through 11, including half sizes.
Other Loafers We Love
Freda Salvador is one of the brands that Maguire points to for classic pairs of loafers, and I see why. This option comes in a buttery croc-printed leather that adds just enough interest without becoming unwearable on an everyday basis. You can shop them in mainly full sizes with a few half-sizes peppered in, too. Reviewers say they run a tad wide, but that makes them perfect for layering with thicker socks in the winter.
What We Love: Comfortable; runs true to size; comes in some half sizes.
What We Don't: Some reviewers found them stiff out of the box.
Size Range: US sizes 6 through 10, including most half sizes.
For the ultimate grandpa-core vibes, opt for this two-toned pair from another Maguire-approved brand, Rag & Bone. Coming in at just under $300, they make for the perfect middle-of-the-road investment and, thanks to the wearable color combination, they'll become a favorite in your collection.
What We Love: Runs true-to-size; comfortable; no break-in period.
What We Don't: Doesn't come in half-sizes.
Size Range: EU sizes 36 through 41.
If these ruched loafers look familiar, it's probably because you've seen them on the feet of style stars like Kendall Jenner, Emma Stone, and Hailey Bieber. Bieber and Stone both own them in the red iteration, while Jenner prefers the black option. The leather fabrication is, as the name might suggest, buttery-smooth, and you can shop them in both the classic look or an eel skin finish for a subtle pop.
What We Love: Comes in different finishes; celebrity-approved; comes in different colors; comes in half sizes.
What We Don't: Can be quick to sell out.
Size Range: EU sizes 35 through 42, including half sizes.
The leopard print trend is still going strong as we head into winter, so why not test-drive the pattern with a pair of fun loafers from Reformation? Maguire flagged the sustainable brand as a favorite of hers, and I couldn't agree more: its shoe selection is seriously underrated. Enter the Agathea Chunky Loafers. The lugged sole is perfect for avoiding slips and slides on icy winter concrete.
What We Love: Comes in half sizes; has a slip-proof lug sole.
What We Don't: Runs large, the brand recommends to size down.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes.
Marie Claire’s Digital Director, Jenny Hollander, says these machine-washable woven loafers from Rothy’s fuel her obsession with the brand. ”Coming in seven colors, from plain black to bold leopard print with scarlet insoles, these loafers are the perfect smart-casual slip-on shoe that'll take you from work to a late-night dinner,” she says. Other comfortable footwear connoisseurs agree with her: These loafers have racked up tens of thousands of reviews confirming their appeal. You can wear them right out of the box and still avoid blisters or rubbing.
What We Love: Editor-approved; comes in seven colors; comes in half-sizes; machine-washable; rated for comfort.
What We Don't: Reviews say they run small.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 13, including half sizes.
These loafers sit somewhere between a ballet flat and a normal loafer, with their slender, lightweight silhouette and office-ready appeal. As Fashion Features Editor Emma Childs puts it: “When I saw Gigi Hadid wearing Tory Burch's Ballet Loafers multiple times while running around New York City, looking as chic as can be, I took it as a sign that they were destined to be mine." She says the flat-meets-loafer design is neutral enough to wear in several outfits—but "they also have the perfect amount of fashion flair to satisfy my statement-loving heart.” Win-win.
What We Love: Editor-approved; comes in four colors.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say they run small.
Size Range: US sizes 4 through 13, including half sizes.
Silver shoes are a fall 2023 footwear trend that's lasting into spring, and beyond—and J.Crew's chunky loafer is the best way to test drive the metallic look. Its lug-sole design is ever-so-slightly '90s-inspired, but the reflective leather feel fresh for the spring season ahead. Plus, the silver can function as a neutral with an otherwise easy outfit built from your closet essentials: a plain white tee, light-wash jeans, and so on.
What We Love: Comes in half-sizes; runs true-to-size; rated for comfort; can be dressed up or down.
What We Don't: Some reviewers found them to be tight at first.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 12, including half sizes (marked as "Medium").
My dad has owned several pairs of these suede loafers over the years, and I'm finally taking his fashion advice and (thinking of) getting some for myself. The suede is buttery-smooth, and, based on the fact that he wears them almost daily, I can attest to the fact that they last. This option comes in two colors—either this smokey gray or a camel shade—and comes adorned with tiny rubber pebbles on the sole and back for added comfort and durability.
What We Love: Comes in half-sizes; comes in two colors; runs true-to-size;
What We Don't: Some reviews say they run narrow.
Size Range: EU sizes 36 through 42, including half sizes.
Not every pair of loafers needs to come in shades like black, brown, or gray. Sometimes, you want a pair that's a bit more fun. This option from French brand Sezane fits the bill. They come in shades like this jade green—which I'm using to channel my Brat green obsession into the fall—and two other neutral hues. Plus, the silhouette taps into the Taylor Swift-approved heeled loafer look. It's truly a win-win.
What We Love: Comes in several colors; no break-in period.
What We Don't: Only comes in one half size; some reviewers say they run large.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11.
Leave it to Ralph Lauren to create the perfect wear-anywhere loafers in one of the season's most in-demand hues. Burgundy—or oxblood, specifically—is one of fall's trendiest shades, and it's surprisingly easy to style. They also come in an olive green hue and in half sizes, so you're bound to find a pick that works for your wardrobe this season.
What We Love: Comes in two colors; comes in half sizes; runs true-to-size; no break-in period.
What We Don't: Some reviewers say they run wide.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes.
Think of these loafers as the chicer, slightly more formal version of your winter boots. The shearling lining adds a boost of warmth (so much so that you probably don't need to style them with socks!), while the buttery leather and subtle heel make them even more comfortable. They come in two shades (black and caramel brown) and in half sizes. The brand calls them the halfway point between a pair of comfy slippers and a traditional pair of loafers, so I'm hooked.
What We Love: Comes in half sizes; comes in two colors; are shag-lined for extra warmth, and fits true to size.
What We Don't: The shag texture might not work in wet conditions.
Size Range: US sizes 5 through 11, including half sizes.
What to Look for in the Best Loafers
- Quality: Loafers have the potential to be the foundation of your footwear wardrobe, so invest in a pair that will truly last. Some brands have a rich history of creating high-quality loafers, like Gucci, which first released its leather horse-bit loafer in 1953. All those decades of experience—and an emphasis on handmade designs—mean the label's pairs will endure from season to season. Capital-D Designer brands aren't the only ones who've mastered quality. G.H. Bass's loafers are often under $200—and they're credited as the first-ever penny loafer in fashion, released in 1936. More affordable brands like Sam Edelman and Vagabond Shoemakers are also careful to craft each pair with long-lasting details like padded footbeds and supportive soles.
- Silhouette: As Pantin notes, the best loafer silhouette is the one you'll actually wear (and in more than one way). If you're ready to branch out from the typical penny loafer silhouette, there are other styles to play with. Celebrities like Taylor Swift have endorsed heeled loafers for extra height, and designers like Tory Burch have dreamed up silhouettes that combine the ease of a ballet flat with the structure of a loafer. Maguire also says that designers like Jamie Haller (which makes our best overall option) makes the cool-girl approved loafers you should know about.
- Comfort: All and all, Pantin's number-one priority with loafers is true for every style of shoe: She's looking for comfort first. "They're everyday shoes, so they need to be able to be worn every day without killing your feet," she explains. Consider the amount of arch support, the thickness of the sole, the heel height, and the materials used to determine if a pair of loafers will deliver a wear-all-day feel for you.
How to Style Loafers
Because loafers are endlessly versatile, you don't have to overthink styling them. Celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Alexa Chung have mastered the art of the off-duty loafer, for instance, so look to either new-age style icon for outfit inspiration.
Jenner owns several pairs of black loafers, and styles each pair differently. She teamed a patent pair with a Reformation mini skirt and a sweater vest for the perfect high-low preppy look, and teamed a pair of The Row's Soft Loafers with an equally-luxurious jacket from the Olsen-twin-founded brand once the weather had changed. Chung, however, opted for a classic trench-coat-and-jeans combination, which is one I fall back on when I don't know what to wear.
Taylor Swift also put her spin on the loafers trend in late 2023, wearing a heeled pair while out to dinner with Gracie Abrams (also in a pair loafers) in New York City. Swift styled them with sheer black tights, a white skirt, and a navy blue blazer—the perfect way to transition your loafers from winter to spring. It's a look she's copied since, marking it as a signature aspect of her current wardrobe era.
Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams coordinated in old-fashioned loafers on a fall outing in New York City.
If you've mastered the classic look and want to branch out, Maguire recommends thinking outside of the box with your styling techniques. Socks are a go-to accessory, she says, but she also loves to wear them with trendier clothing pieces. "Try pairing them with a bubble or a-line circle skirt for a more preppy or dressed-up look," she says.
Meet the Style Experts
Laurel Pantin is the Los Angeles-based author of style newsletter Earl Earl, a branding and creative consultant, and personal stylist. She is a former fashion editor who previously held roles at InStyle, Coveteur, Lucky, and Teen Vogue.
As Shopbop's Senior Fashion Director, Caroline Maguire brings her signature style, keen eye, and over 15 years of industry experience to the role. Since joining the organization in April 2016, Caroline has partnered closely with creative, buying, PR, and marketing team members to determine fashion direction across the company. She also serves as Shopbop’s primary brand ambassador in press interviews and media appearances, and delivers key style takeaways to the customer in creative onsite editorials.
