The 11 Loafers That Belong in Every Wardrobe (2024)

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Few shoes makes as much sense with almost any outfit as the best loafers for women do. While the timeless, ivy-inspired look never goes out of style, it evolves season after season. Most recently, Gucci’s Horsebit Loafer, now over 70 years old, made a runway return in both a platform and classic form; Proenza Schouler paired classic black loafers with a handful of their runway looks, and Tory Burch introduced a T-strap loafer in its latest runway collection. Also this season, we’re seeing chunky silhouettes and silver loafers remain in the mix. New arrivals include everything from modern classics like the Row’s tasseled loafer to nostalgic driving moccasins. Minimalist shapes crafted in luxurious leather also remain relevant in the footwear rotation. And finally, pointy-toed, cream-colored, and loafers with micro heels are also making cameos this season.

The Best Loafers for Women, According to Vogue

• The Perfect Penny Loafer: The Row Calfskin Tassel Boyfriend Loafers, $1,150
• The Under $200 Score: Cos Chunky Leather Loafers, $170
• The Chunky Cult Classic: Gucci Horsebit loafers, $1,150
• The Driving Loafer: Tod’s Gommino suede loafers, $695
• The Cool-Girl Loafer: Emme Parsons Danielle loafers, $525
• The Minimalist Loafer: Khaite Alessio Loafer, $1,1250
• The Croc-Embellished Loafer: Everlane lug loafers, $100
• The Heeled Loafer: Miu Miu Patent Leather Loafer, $1,150
• The Metallic Loafer: Tory Burch Classic Loafer, $358
• The Two-Toned Loafer: Mango Penny Loafer, $99

Investing in staples like Gucci’s iconic horse-bit loafers, Saint Laurent’s perfectly polished Penny loafers, or Tod’s sophisticated Italian-crafted flats ensures that these wardrobe essentials stand the test of time. But more modern iterations won’t feel like a hasty indulgence—no matter your chosen loafer, virtually every design in our edit is sure to last for years in your shoe closet. So, whether you’re seeking a bold statement or a more classic approach, Vogue’s edit of the best loafers for women, from contemporary designs to enduring classics, has you covered.

Classic Penny Loafers

Defined by the horizontal strap, or “saddle,” across the instep, Penny loafers are iconic in brown or black, leather or suede, heeled or flat. Options are truly endless, from Saint Laurent’s simple black silhouette to The Row’s sleek version or Church’s timeless iteration.

Chunky-Sole Loafers

From lug soles to platforms, weighty loafers are undoubtedly one of the season’s most coveted takes on the classic shoe, especially when styled with socks in chilly weather. Gucci’s Horsebits’ are cult-loved season after season, while Proenza Schouler’s is a current trending style.

Minimal Loafers

If you’re drawn to pared-back styles, or you’re newly venturing into the world of loafers, a minimalist design is a perfect option. Choose Khaite’s ultra-sleek smoking slipper style with a glossy finish, or take the look a step further with Emme Parsons’ black croc-embossed style. High-street heroes include those from Zara to Dolce Vita.

Heeled Loafers

Polished workwear and a heeled loafer are a natural fit, whether your preferred silhouette is a walkable one to two-inch block heel or a soaring four-inch design. Chloe and Miu Miu always take the cake for their classic yet preppy iterations, while Bottega and Toteme are creating modern versions of this retro style.

Driving Loafers

If you prefer a soft shoe, the driving loafer is for you. Hallmarked by the flexible moccasin-style silhouette and rubber pebbles along the soles, these are meant to fit snugly without pinching or creating pressure the way more structured leather might. Iterations by Tod’s, Tory Burch, and of course, Minnetonka, epitomize this comfortable classic.

Two-Toned Loafers

For low-key polish, a two-toned loafer is a welcome hybrid between classic and trendy. Black and white pairs from Saint Laurent, Christian Louboutin, and Stuart Weitzman are tried and true, while chocolate brown styles from Miu Miu and Celine are great for transitional temps.

Metallic Loafers

Of all the new trending styles, few shine brighter than the gleaming silvers and gold. Lean into the boldness of it, with high and low picks from Tory Burch and Prada to Coach and Reformation.

Backless Loafers

It’s hard to beat the ease of a slip-on shoe. That’s where backless loafers come into play—they’re ultra-comfy, not to mention effortless looking with skirts, dresses, and cropped jeans. Go the timeless route with Gucci’s horse-bit moccasins or bolder with Bottega Veneta's glossy Monsieur slip-ons, or take a modern approach with Our Legacy’s iteration.

T-Strap Loafers

Reach for the T-strap loafer when you want classic with a twist. Fashion’s continued appetite for nostalgic silhouettes has emerged in this refreshing hybrid form. Prada offers a timeless iteration with a rebellious undertone, while Hereu and G.H. Bass incorporate intricate woven detailing for a lighter, transitional take.

Pointy-Toed Loafers

For a more fashion-forward take on this timeless trend, go for a pointed look. Prada, Jil Sander, Bottega, and Khaite all have (couldn’t resist!) on-point options this season with their sleek takes, while Aeyde has a two-toned version that minimalists will love. For a micro-heel moment, Cos’ has a choice pick.

White Loafers

Winter whites are always in, and the loafer is no exception. Le Monde Béryl and Flattered made contemporary versions of this classic style, while Tod’s and Gucci transformed their most classic loafers into fresh white pairs.