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Updated October 2nd, 2023: This article on the best loafers for women was updated with trend information based on the fall 2023 and spring 2024 runway collections, tips on what to wear with loafers, and additional testing notes.
As temperatures drop, we can finally put away our cute summer sandals and slide into fall shoes — like the best loafers for women — that will take us from one season to the next in style.
Simply put, a stylish loafer is a slip-on shoe that exposes the ankle and features a low-profile heel. But this shoe style comes in many variations, too. Some of the most common loafer silhouettes include moccasins (which harken back to Native American-made styles that inspired the first loafer of the 1930s) and smoking slippers (said original loafer style, which also took its look from silhouettes worn by British royals in the 1800s). Other top loafer models include penny loafers (made famous by Maine shoemaker G.H. Bass) and driving loafers (originally built for driving thanks to their nubbed rubber outsole, but now considered a casual shoe). Some loafers are also mule-hybrids and may feature tassel details or horsebit-style hardware on the vamp. (The latter is a nod to the design perfected in the 1950s by Aldo Gucci, son of the mastermind behind the luxury brand).
Watch on FN
While any loafer silhouette is timeless, if you’re into keeping up with trends, you’ll want to try sleek, classic penny loafers seen on celebrities like Hailey Bieber, Addison Rae, and Elsa Hosk, or buckle-adorned patent leather loafers spotted in Max Mara’s fall 2023 collection.
When shopping for the best slip-on loafers for women, consider styles with elevated comfort features, like flexible uppers and ample cushioning underfoot — these will comfort your feet while you wear them throughout the day. If you’re looking for the most comfortable loafers for women, try options with molded footbeds and deep heel cups to help relieve pain stemming from flat feet or plantar fasciitis. (And if you suffer from bunions, seek out silhouettes with wide toe boxes and those with malleable uppers.) All of these features not only make certain loafers great for everyday wear but also some of the best styles for work, too.
Related:
Comfortable Flats for Women
Sizes: 4 to 13, including half sizes and wide width options
Materials: 100% synthetic
Pros: Good for work
Cons: Run large
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I have been searching for the perfect pair of shoes for my commute pre-Covid and honestly after 20+ pairs, I can say this is the best shoe I’ve bought.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $72.45
Sizes: 5.5 to 10, including half sizes
Materials: Leather
Pros: Classy-looking
Cons: Stiff toebox
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
DSW Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.9/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I can’t say enough good things about these loafers. The leather is beautiful and they are SO incredibly comfortable–I actually gasped when I put them on. Perfect for a day on your feet at work or running around town. I typically wear a 7.5 (sometimes a 7, sometimes an 8, depending on brand/style), but based on feedback I found on these shoes on another website, I sized down to a 7 and the fit is perfect.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $139.99
Sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizes and select wide width options
Materials: Faux leather, suede sole
Pros: No heel
Cons: No side support
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Zappos Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Over 1,500 customers gave these comfortable women’s flats from Steve Madden five stars, calling them a wardrobe staple. Available in various bright to basic suede and leather finishes, the minimalist silhouette has a sleek pointed toe and will look great with everything from professional frocks to oversized jeans on the weekends. It’s also a great affordable option, though do keep in mind that if you need ample arch support, these aren’t your best bet.
What reviewers say: “A shoe under $100 that doesn’t need to be broken in or worn with Band-Aids for the first few weeks? Just fabulous! The material is so soft and flexible, and they’re perfectly true to size. I wear a size 10, and some shoes can make me look like I have clown feet. These don’t at all. I highly recommend snagging a pair of these!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $72.79
Sizes: 6 to 11, including half sizes and wide-width options
Materials: 100% synthetic
Pros: Podiatrist-approved
Cons: Runs large
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Keeping in line with the brand’s ethos, the shoes don’t skimp on style, either. They feature a chic front strap and are done in both smooth suede and leather finishes.
What reviewers say: “My new job had me walking a minimum of eight to 10 miles a day. I went through three different types of tennis shoes and three different types of dress shoes and these are the only shoes that I was able to wear the entire day. After eight hours, I still felt like I was walking on air. My only regret is not finding these shoes first.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Sizes: 5 to 11, including wide-width options
Material: Vegan leather
Pros: Memory foam insole
Cons: Run narrow
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These shoes are adorable and comfortable. I ordered a 7W and I am a true size with medium to wide feet. I would describe these as narrow. They have a little give so they’re still comfortable for me but certainly not wide. However, quality is great for the price and they are so cute!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $39.99
Sizes: 4 to 12, including half sizes and narrow and wide options
Materials: Faux leather
Pros: Comfortable for everyday wear
Cons: Stretches easily
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I have a very narrow foot so it’s hard for me to find flats and loafers that 1. come in a narrow width 2. are comfortable to walk and work in all day and 3. don’t rub giant blisters. Immediately out of the box these fit like a glove and are super comfy and stylish. I feel like Cinderella!!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $89.50
Related:
Best Flats With Arch Support
Sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Materials: Faux leather, synthetic sole
Pros: Quality patent leather
Cons: Half a size large
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
What reviewers say: “These are so fun. They seem like such a throwback to the ’90s and I love the height of the heel. It is pretty chunky but the shiny material gives it a more feminine quality.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $67
Sizes: 4 to 13, including half sizes
Materials: Leather upper, chrome-free napa leather lining
Pros: Cushioned leather footbed
Cons: No arch support
Tory Burch Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.3/5 stars
In terms of aesthetics, this is a great pick for anyone who wants something slightly unconventional but not too flashy. Complete with a round toe and a Double T in brushed gold, the leather style comes in classic colors like tan and patent leather brown — but is also available in a delicate lavender finish.
What reviewers say: “This shoe is nothing short of amazing! I’m so glad I made this purchase! I’ve worn these shoes with casual dresses, skirts and dressy shorts. It’s perfect for the workplace and for a night on the town! The comfort factor is a 10 for sure and the color is also perfect for all year. I’ll be purchasing this shoe in another color. This product exceeded my expectations in every category. Highly recommend this loafer.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $298
Sizes: 4 to 12, including half sizes
Materials: Leather
Pros: Timeless
Cons: Expensive
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “Initially, I didn’t want to spend hundreds of dollars for a pair of trendy slides, so I settled for a pair half the price. The leather wasn’t as nice, and there wasn’t enough padding. I returned them and finally decided to buck up and buy these. So glad I did because the comfort and quality are worth it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $850
Materials: Leather
Pros: Classic style
Cons: Runs large
Nordstrom Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
What reviewers say: “I have been wanting these beautiful shoes for two years and finally them for myself as a college graduation gift! They are very comfortable and soo stylish. I am going to have these for a very long time. Every time I wear them I think of the hard work and dedication it took to get my degree!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Materials: Leather
Pros: Durable
Cons: Firm
Bloomingdale’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Its iconic Whitney Bax silhouette is a great example of what the brand does best. The genuine leather style is inspired by classic menswear silhouettes and includes penny loafer detailing with a moc toe and low heel. Grab it in cognac or black for a perfect complement to trousers and structured midi skirts.
What reviewers say: “I’ve been buying Bass Weejuns for years and have them in various colors. They are the most comfortable and versatile shoes you can buy and the price is right. The pair I recently bought from Macy’s has not disappointed, and it’s great to see that Bass still maintains its high standards and quality. I highly recommend these shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $175
Sizes: 5 to 11, including half sizes
Materials: 100% Leather Upper, Natural Rubber Outsole
Pros: Classic with a twist
Cons: Narrow
What reviewers say: “This is my second pair of The Modern Loafer, and I just love them. They are cute, comfortable, and you can wear them with or without socks with no issues at all. I usually buy a half size larger when I purchase Everlane shoes, unless it indicates that it runs true to size. Always happy with the quality of shoes and clothing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
Sizes: 3 to 14 and narrow, medium and wide width options
Materials: Italian suede upper
Pros: Many colors to choose from
Cons: Runs small
What reviewers say: “Comfort, style and quality! I’m in retail and on my feet all day and these loafers pass the test.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $278
Sizes: 4 to 13, including half sizes and wide-width options
Materials: Leather, triple-dyed Italian suede sourced from LWG Gold-rated manufacturer
Pros: Cushions the foot
Cons: Narrow
What reviewers say: “I am always worried whether a shoe will fit because I have flat and wide feet, but the Rosie fit beautifully from the first moment I wore them. Very soft leather and comfortable yet elegant. I wear them at home all day while working from home to feel dressed up!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $495
Sizes: 5 to 13, including half sizes
Materials: Knit from Rothy’s signature thread, which is spun from plastic bottles
Pros: Lightweight
Cons: Tight-fitting for people with wide feet or bunions
Rothy’s Top-Quality Store Badge on Google
What reviewers say: “I decided to give Rothy’s a try after my co-worker recommended the shoes Wow!! Just wowwww!! When I wear flats, I usually get foot cramps once in a while from walking, but with these it’s like walking in house slippers. They’re so comfortable and look professional enough for office wear.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $169
Sizes: 5 to 11.5, including half sizes
Materials: Leather
Pros: Stylish
Cons: Expensive
Bergdorf Goodman Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.7/5 stars
Price upon publish date of this article: $1,250
Sizes: 5 to 12, including half sizes and wide-width options
Materials: Premium suede, calf hair
Pros: Molds to your foot
Cons: Size up
This editor also counts herself a fan of the silhouette. Offering the ultimate mix of high style and function, these smoking loafers offer a sturdy sole and the brand’s signature seven layers of cushioning hidden inside a silky, quilted insole. I own the version with a leopard print calf-hair upper — which I love, as it can easily add intrigue to a basic all-black outfit — but the style is also available in monochromatic leather, suede, or velvet, depending on the look you’re going for.
And even if you don’t have an A-list-sized budget, these are still accessible to most, priced at just $150.
What reviewers say: “I purchased these so I could walk all day on my European vacation without packing a huge pair of sneakers. SO comfortable. I can walk miles with no blisters or hot spots. The latte color goes with everything; I wore them with jeans and dresses.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Sizes: 5 to 10, including half sizes
Materials: Faux leather
Pros: Untraditional but stylish
Cons: Not cushioned
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve had my eyes on Marc Fisher’s Tarla Loafers for a while now, but when I saw an influencer post about them on Instagram, I knew I had to have them before they sold out. When I first got them, I was prepared to break them in but was delighted that they didn’t need to be. I was able to wear them for the first time comfortably for my 25-minute New York City commute to the office. What drew me to the silhouette was the menswear design with the statement buckle, contrast stitching, and cushioned lug sole bottom, and I’m happy to say they look the same in person as online.” — Nikki Chwatt Style Commerce Editor
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Sizes: 5 to 11
Materials: LWG Silver-certified patent Italian leather
Special features: Handmade in Tuscany
Pros: Comfortable
Cons: Runs large
At first glance, the loafers seem straightforward and traditional; however, once you look closer, you’ll notice the LWG Gold-certified Italian leather and OrthoLite Hybrid, which provides cushioning and uncompromised performance with less impact on the planet. Whether heading to the office or dinner with friends, complete your look with these.
What reviewers say: “I got a number of compliments on them, and they are so comfy. I ended up wearing them for the first time on a day where I had to do a lot of walking, and these shoes were so great — no pain/pinches/blisters. They can be dressed up or dressed down, based on what you wear.”
Editor testing and review notes: “From their sophisticated and sleek silhouette to buttery-smooth leather upper, let’s just say these have quickly become my go-to work shoes. I love that they’re also water-resistant, so they hold up against light rain. Just make sure you go down a size because they do run big.” — Nikki Chwatt Style Commerce Editor
Price upon publish date of this article: $325
Sizes: 5 to 10
Materials: Pure PVC
Special features: Bubblegum scent
Pros: Vegan and recyclable
Cons: Limited size range
Price upon publish date of this article: $119
The Different Types of Loafers for Women
This season there are many fresh iterations of women’s loafers, from designer styles to nostalgic versions channeling the ’90s and ’00s. Think chunky silhouettes with lug soles and eye-catching embellishments like oversize buckles to sleek metal adornments and daring colors.
- Penny loafers: Penny loafers, defined by their horizontal strap called “saddle” across the instep, have a long history that dates back to moccasins worn by Native Americans, hunters, and gatherers. However, today they create an elegant style moment with their ever-so-slight heel. They’re a great option for first-time loafer wearers because they’re versatile, and there are endless options, from Vagabond Shoemakers’ classic black silhouette to the G.H. Bass & Co. Whitney Bax Leather Loafers.
- Classic designer loafers: A designer loafer is a failsafe investment because they combine the enduring quality of luxury materials with the timelessness of a loafer silhouette. Many designers have their chic styles; however, Gucci’s and Tods’ are the most notable for their classic appeal and ability to be worn casually or in more refined settings. These loafers are also available in many styles and colors, too.
- Lug-sole loafers/chunky loafers: Sturdy lug-sole loafers are this season’s most coveted take on the classic shoe. While they may have a robust and rebellious sole, they’re surprisingly easy to style and a simple way to update your new-season look. The best part? These shoes tend to have excellent traction. So, if you’re ready to get on board, look to labels like Dr. Martens, Prada, or Melissa.
- Driving loafers: The driving loafer has a soft, slip-on silhouette similar to a comfortable ballet flat. They were originally designed to provide drivers with an alternative pair of shoes to avoid wearing out the soles on their formal loafers, but today, driving loafers are more commonly worn for style points. Iterations by Tod’s and Salvatore Ferragamo are iconic wardrobe staples, while Tory Burch also offers a freshened-up take on the comfortable classic.
- Heeled loafers: Heeled loafers are great for those who prefer added height in a feminine-forward way. This style exudes the preppy sophistication that heel devotees crave, whether paired with sharp tailoring or fluid silhouettes. Gucci and Prada’s minimalist designs are a stylish finish to tailored separates, while Dirty Laundry and Cushionaire’s platform designs know how to make a statement with chic dresses.
- Backless loafers: If you want to test the loafer look, try backless loafers, also known as mules. Since they have no backing, they’re easy to slip in and out of and great for those who are always on the go. While they have slipper-like comfort, they’re still smart enough to pair with your 9-to-5 uniform. Additionally, this style is a style solution for tricky in-between ankle-length pants.
What to Look For When Shopping for Women’s Loafers
- Materials: Like comfortable walking shoes, the best loafers for women should be built with high-quality materials that guarantee comfort and a worthy investment. For the upper, consider finding loafers that feature soft leather since it is breathable, which is important if you wear your loafers without socks. When it comes to the sole, look for a more structured sole for flexibility, durability, and traction. Rubber is an excellent material, since it’s supportive for those on their feet all day.
- Support: Get your hands on loafers with arch support if you deal with common foot problems. New York-based podiatrist Dr. Parker M Gennett says your shoes should have “a stiff heel counter, firm, protective sole and torsion stability,” adding that “if you can twist the shoe like a pretzel, it’s probably not a good option.” If you have need shoes for flat feet, look for loafers with stiffer elements, such as insoles and orthotics. If you have high arches, choose more flexible and cushioned shoes to help absorb shock.
- Silhouette and use: While one of the best things about loafers is that there are many different styles to choose from, it can also make shopping overwhelming. Since there are penny loafers, heeled loafers, driving loafers, loafer mules, slipper loafers, and more, consider when and for what occasion you will be wearing these shoes. For example, penny loafers may be the most suitable if you want a semi-formal option for the office; however, if you want to swap out your strappy stilettos for something more prim and proper, then a heeled loafer may be for you.
- Designs and embellishments: When shopping for women’s loafers, consider whether you want a pair with embellishments. From crystals and buckles to chains and logo-embossed hardware, loafers with embellishments are as coveted and timeless as traditional penny loafers. Don’t believe us? Just look at Zaya Wade’s and Gigi Hadid’s off-duty styles, and you’ll notice both fashion tastemakers frequently opt for embellished loafers.
The Women’s Loafers Trend for 2023 and 2024
Loafers are often considered preppy shoes that exclusively team best with fallen leaves, high socks, and mini skirts. According to the fall 2023 and spring 2024 runways, loafers deliver year-round appeal for their chic, smart look.
For fall, we’re witnessing an array of fresh loafers in the new arrivals sections. “We see customers priming their wardrobes with great flat mules and collegiate prep loafers,” Rickie De Sole, women’s fashion director at Nordstrom, tells FN. Also, minimalist menswear-inspired loafers crafted in luxurious leather, as seen on the fall 2023 runways at Max Mara, Giorgio Armani, and more, are popular styles that deserve a spot in anyone’s footwear rotation. Likewise, easy-to-slip-on backless silhouettes, be it sleek with a touch of hardware or more oversized slide à la Loewe’s collection, are convenient options to invest in. On the spring 2024 runways, like at Gucci’s show, the loafer moved past chunky and into full-blown flatforms.
Not only are designers proving that comfortable, smart loafers are relevant, but celebrities are, too. Blake Lively, Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, Zaya Wade, Jessica Chastain, and Taylor Swift are just a few who’ve traded their stiff stilettos for loafers. We’ve seen them style these shoes with little black dresses, blazers, midi skirts, and more.
Of course, TikTok has also influenced the loafer’s recent spike in popularity. A brief search for “loafers” on the platform will yield numerous videos, many of which have millions of likes, as influencers and everyday fashion lovers showcase how they style their beloved pairs for every season.
So, if you want to invest your hard-earned money in a pair of shoes that you’ll enjoy for fall and won’t regret buying come next season, the loafer is for you.
Socks With Loafers Trend: The Best Socks to Wear With Loafers
So you’ve found a pair of comfortable women’s loafers for walking, but now the question is, how do you wear the shoe in a fresh and modern way? The answer: Style your loafers with socks.
There was a time when this combination would’ve been unthinkable, but now the appealing pair is becoming the look du jour. From Hailey Bieber to Emma Roberts, all the It-girls are rocking the look. Socks and loafers are a great duo because socks add a touch of originality to any outfit while ensuring a certain level of comfort.
The best part is that the look is relatively easy to adopt. No matter what type of loafers you own, consider these factors for the best styling results:
- Type of socks: In our opinion, if you’re going to wear socks with loafers, white socks (think a ribbed sporty sock with Nike’s iconic swoosh or a thin bobby sock) are the best option because they are clean and don’t add any unnecessary bulk. Once you’ve gotten comfortable with the simple white socks and loafers outfit combo, you can upgrade your socks to something more colorful such as red ankle socks (fall 2023’s hottest color) or Miu Miu’s grey knee-length socks. But that’s not all — you can step out of the box further and experiment with sheer socks, a great way to add a touch of style and personality to your trendy look.
- The rest of the outfit: If you’re ready to try this offbeat look this season, also consider the rest of your outfit. For example, if you’re a denim girlie, pair your loafers and socks with cropped straight-leg jeans, an oversized blazer, and a silk button-down. If you gravitate toward one-and-done pieces, dress up your white-socks–and-loafers vibe with a pretty statement dress. If you love a classic New York City look, use your loafer and socks to punch up an all-black sweater and trouser getup. Whatever outfit formula you choose, the socks and loafers combination will add an effortlessly chic touch to any of your looks.
Adidas Premium Essentials Crew Socks 2 Pairs
Nike Everyday Plus Cushioned Socks
Calzedonia Sport Socks
Miu Miu Ribbed Silk Socks
Le Bon Shoppe Her Socks
How We Selected the Best Loafers for Women
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
Several writers and editors at Footwear News spent many hours researching and combing through hundreds of customer reviews and tapped a top foot expert to help determine the best loafers for women. This writer and the team at FN also went straight to the sources, requesting shoe brands to submit multiple shoe styles for consideration while cross-comparing them with various foot types to narrow down our top picks for women’s loafers. They also considered the top-standing and walking loafers within various workplaces and types of flooring. As new shoes are released throughout 2023 and into early 2024, we will continue to update this guide to the best loafers for women to deliver the most up-to-date recommendations and tips to enable you to focus on the day ahead — and not your achy or blistered feet. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Expert
Dr. Parker M Gennett is a Binghamton, NY- based podiatrist certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Podiatric Medical Specialties Board. With degrees from the University of Arizona, the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine, and DVAMC Palo Alto/Stanford University Medical Center, he also serves as a diplomate of the American College of Foot & Ankle Surgeons. He has over 25 years of well-rounded practice at the Foot & Ankle Care Center with full staff privileges at Lourdes Hospital and United Health Services.
Meet the Author
Nikki Chwatt is the Style Commerce Editor for Fairchild Media Group where she writes and edits shopping stories for Footwear News and WWD. Prior to her current role, she wrote countless buyer’s guides, trend stories, and reviews on fashion and beauty products, including shoe-focused stories for women. You can find her in stylish loafers when she’s running errands around New York City on the weekend or attending showroom appointments to check out the latest footwear trends during the work week. Chwatt updated this guide to the best loafers for women on October 2nd, 2023, with new trends for the fall 2023 and spring 2024 runway collections and additional editor testing notes.
