Best Loafers for Women: 12 Ways to Step Up Your Shoe Game

With leather uppers, gold-tone horsebit detailing, and a classic silhouette, these Steve Madden loafers could easily pass for some of their pricier designer brethren. The chunky lug sole adds a modern edge while providing practical benefits like comfort and traction, making the Mistor loafers an excellent wear-all-day option.

Traditional with a subtly modern twist, Alexandre Birman’s all-black Clarita loafers are a style essential. The combination of masculine elements (the sturdy, substantial shape) with feminine detailing (that unmistakable Clarita bow, an Alexandre Birman signature) make these loafers a contemporary classic.

Handcrafted to perfection, Freda Salvador’s penny loafers stand out for their exquisite quality and timeless design. Showcasing meticulous attention to detail, these leather beauties should last you a lifetime, making them worth every penny—which you really can store in the little slot across the top, should you need an extra cent or two while going about your daily business.

Stuart Weitzman’s chunky-heeled loafer effortlessly combines sophistication with versatility, making it a must-have shoe for any style-conscious woman on the go. As sturdy as they are chic, the heels provide extra height without skimping on comfort. Pair these loafers with everything from jeans to dresses to suits; you’ll look well heeled for any occasion.

Love the look of quiet luxury, but not the luxury price tag? Check out Madewell's The Corinne Lugsole Loafer, which captures that old-money vibe without breaking the bank. The perfect complement to your favorite jeans/white t-shirt/sunglasses ensembles, these effortlessly chic loafers will elevate even the most basic OOTDs.

When it comes to this season’s shoe trends, two styles—ballet flats and loafers—stand head and shoulders above the rest. Consider this buttery leather hybrid by Tory Burch the best of both worlds. I’m crazy about the two-tone black-and-ivory version, but the ballet loafer comes in a variety of other colors and materials, including crinkled metallic silver leather and soft tan suede.

Bright, bold red is the biggest color trend of fall 2024, and the easiest way to incorporate the flaming-hot hue into your fall wardrobe? Look no further than your own two feet. Ferragamo's ravishing red loafers are a symphony of craftsmanship and style, with the Italian design house’s iconic logo winking mischievously at anyone looking close enough to notice the scarlet-on-scarlet letters.

A bit of fashion history for you: Weejuns are, quite literally, the OG penny loafers, created in 1936 by G.H. Bass & Co. by adapting a Norwegian farm shoe that was used for “loafing” in the fields. The legendary footwear hasn’t changed all that much nearly a century later, so if you’re after a classic penny loafer, you might as well go for the original. Shopping tip: Weejuns aren’t just for women—there’s another version that made our list of the best loafers for men.

For those who eschew high heels, Loeffler Randall's platform loafers are a style revelation: They elevate both your height and your fashion game. In a rich chocolate brown leather—fall’s second hottest color, just after red—they’re perfect to pair with everything from skirts and dresses to tailored separates. Bonus points for matching them with other warm, autumnal hues.

Can you even call yourself a designer shoe addict if your collection doesn’t include a pair of Choos? While stiletto heels might not be for everyone, these timeless loafers just might be: Picture the finest leather, a refined square toe, multifaceted gold chain detailing, and expert Italian craftsmanship. These shoes are the ultimate in quietly glam, logo-free luxe. Ready to board the loafer train? Choo Choo!

Crafted with meticulous precision, The Row’s loafers embody the essence of minimalist elegance for which Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s brand is renowned. With a design that cheekily combines sophistication with a touch of over-the-top extravagance, these shoes make a major style statement without saying a word—the epitome of IYKYK.

Regardless of whether you’re the designated driver, a passenger princess or a dedicated pedestrian for life, you need this Coach driving loafer in your fall footwear wardrobe. A little preppy, a little luxurious, and seriously comfortable, these driving loafers will take you everywhere from carpool duty to languid lunches at the country club—or from your WFH desk situation to the nearest Starbucks for a pumpkin spiced latte. Ditch your usual flip flops and treat yourself to this stylish (and equally comfy) upgrade.