Loafers have a stereotype of being preppy, sporty and transitional, but gave women the chance to wear a high-heeled alternative in the '50s.
From my early ballet school days wearing Capezio flats to high school ensembles paired with Hush Puppies loafers, this footwear style has altered my professional wardrobe and become a must-have shoe in my closet. Loafers might have an old-fashioned reputation but they always return to the trend cycle for their exceptional comfort.
We tapped on expert advice to break down the materials and features to look for when shopping for loafers, along with the best style tips when it comes to leveraging this flat shoe.
What are loafers? | How to style loafers | Materials and features to look for | Best women loafers | Editor-approved loafers | How we chose | Meet the experts
What are considered loafers?
According to LifeStride designer Danielle Kalish, loafers are "slip-on shoes, usually with a polished, leather-like look." She says, "The classic design features a menswear-inspired strap detail but there are tons of modern variations with a feminine look and feel."
For a better understanding of style composition and best loafer pairings, we talked to three experts from Marshalls Good Stuff Style Collective.
How to style loafers
Loafers can be styled in many different ways and with numerous pieces. Because of their versatile composition, loafers can be worn with "wide-leg trousers or mini skirts in the spring for a casual yet sleek vibe," adds celebrity stylist Enrique Melendez. "Try to match the color of your loafers with a corresponding jacket or bag to tie in the whole look."
If you're looking for something more classic, celebrity stylist Molly Dickson recommends trying "a leather loafer and if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, look for pairs that have a chunkier heel or even a platform or bold hardware."
For those looking to elevate their style, celebrity stylist Zerina Akers advises in trying a monochromatic look. "I love a monochromatic look, so I’d recommend styling a classic loafer with a bright outfit. Green is the color of the season so take your look up a notch and wear a green outfit with a classic shoe," says Akers.
Materials and features to look for in loafers
While loafers have a timeless aesthetic, there are certain features to consider.
- Durable outsole: Choose rubber outsoles that are sturdy and uppers with enough room for people with a high in-step. "Also, consider looking at narrow and medium sizes when shopping," says Kalish.
- Comfortable footbed: "Select styles also offer extra built-in arch support and shock absorption when you need additional balance and stability," says Kalish.
- Leather material: "We usually look for a sleek loafer with a classic, yet durable leather-looking material since they're easy to style and clean," adds Kalish.
Best loafers for women, based on expert advice
Suit up: Dream Pairs Loafers
- Affordable
- Modern design
- Not real leather
Size: 6-11 | Colors: 6 | Material: Rubber, polyurethane
Looking for some height? This style is a great alternative to heels. They feature chunky soles and the brand's unique Soft System technology that provides all-day support and cushioning. So, if your feet require extra contour, this pair is ideal to add stability. Plus, it's a great pair for everyday wear.
I owned this pair up to last season and switched it for another similar style, (scroll below). This pair is comfy and a budget-friendly option to build your work wardrobe.
Taken from the pros: Naturalizer Mariana Bit Loafer
- Comfortable fit
- Stretches over time
Size: 5-12 (Medium and wide) | Colors: 5 | Materials: Non-slip outsole (material not mentioned)
Most loafers are characterized by the hardware detail on the upper such as this pair from Naturalizer. The brand offers great heels and shoes for busy professionals, and this one is proof that traditional shoes don't have to be boring.
If you're familiar with the Gucci Horsebit shoe, then you know this is a classic alternative and homage to the Dolce Vita lifestyle. I wore this pair briefly during the fall season and wish I had not given it up. With a non-slip outsole and delicate almond toe-box, this shoe pairs well with most casual ensembles.
Editor's seal of approval: Vivaia Pointed-Toe Bow Loafers
- Feel like sneakers
- Very comfortable
- Runs narrow
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 13 | Materials: Knit and rubber
If you're looking for the comfort of sneakers with the elegance of a loafer, opt for this pair from Vivaia. I've worn Vivaia shoes for two years already, and this loafer iteration is ideal if you want something semi-dressy yet ultra comfortable. Even with its pointed-toe box, the shoe is flexible, reliable and a true complement to most casual pieces.
For those looking to walk a few extra miles, try the Margot pair which combines room and cushion around the footbed.
Editor-approved loafers
Professional flats: Franco Sarto Carolynn Tassel Loafer
- Great for walking
- Supportive and comfortable
- Not ideal with thick socks
Size: 5-13 (Medium and wide) | Colors: 11 | Material: Faux leather, rubber outsole
With a glossy finish and comfortable construction, this is by far, my number one loafer for work and commuting. I pair this style with jeans, slacks and dresses for an elevated and professional look. But what makes this shoe reliable and a favorite is its sole structure.
I've tested this loafer in rainy conditions and I've found it easy to clean the exterior. Plus, it's supportive enough when around slippery surfaces.
Comfortably slick: LifeStride London 2 Loafer
- Very comfortable
- Sophisticated style
- Not ideal for high instep
Size: 5-11 (medium and wide) | Colors: 3 | Material: Faux leather upper
This pair combines the aesthetic of an espadrille with the elegance of a loafer. With chain link details and faux leather texture, the shoe makes the perfect companion for neutral suits and sets. Let’s call it the work loafer that will keep you leveled and ready to leverage your career.
I’ve worn this with denim, skirts and dresses whenever I need comfort and stability throughout the day. It feels cushioned and elevated compared to other shoes I own.
Luxury feel: Birdies The Starling
- Very comfortable footbed
- Can run narrow
Size: 5-13 (Medium and wide) | Colors: 33 | Materials: Velvet upper, rubber outsole
Deputy Shop TODAY editorial director Alexandra Deabler loves these loafers for their comfort and soft feel. "These are so soft and comfortable. They have a true loafer look, which I love, but they’re velvet," says Deabler.
Aside from their comfort, these are crafted with a luxury velvet and feature 7 comfort layers on their footbed construction. While commuting, you'll feel the same level of comfort you experience from your sneakers. I also own a pair of Birdie slippers and they are one of my go-to shoes for the fall.
Just like sneakers: Vionic Uptown Loafer
- Feel very light
- Rubber sole is sturdy
- Run small with socks
Size: 5-13 (Medium and wide) | Colors: 15 | Material: Synthetic rubber outsole, leather upper
Whenever I want to give up my socks, I go back to this pair from Vionic. They're the travel shoe of choice due to their packable feature and breathable interior. The footbed provides arch support and flexibility to withstand long walks. Not only are these versatile but they also received a stamp of approval from the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Leather and sleek: Nisolo Everyday Slip On Loafer
- Comfortable after several wear
- Need time to break in
Size: 5-11 | Colors: 1 | Material: Leather and rubber heel
You might not associate leather with hot weather, but this pair will make your most jaded ensemble extra polished. I own a pair of Nisolo sandals and they've become my go-to shoes to wear with white outfits. The leather lining is surprisingly comfortable and breathable. Plus, they feature a rubber outsole that won't slip. Call it refinement with modern aesthetics.
How we chose
In this piece, I [Espinal] selected pairs based on the features advised by the experts and chose those shoes that have been tested for a period of three months or longer. Every product recommended in this piece has been either tested by me or selected by an editor.
Meet the experts
- Enrique Melendez is a celebrity stylist who works on editorial and red carpet looks.
- Molly Dickson is a celebrity stylist who has worked with many A-listers.
- Zerina Akers is a fashion stylist and award-winning costume designer.
- Danielle Kalish is a designer at LifeStride, a brand focused on comfortable shoes for women.
- Dr. Fabienne Rottenberg is a certified podiatrist and the director of Rottenberg Podiatry on Manhattan's Upper West Side.
