19 Best Loafers for Women (Including Some Amazing Gucci Loafer Alternatives)

Loafers are always in style. Let us help you find your next pair.

Loafers may be the trending shoe of '22, but they actually go way back in history: In fact, Native Americans are credited with creating the first pair of loafers, which were functional footwear made of deerskin. Across the pond, Scandanavian Sámi also wore a similar design that Norwegian milkers and fisherman later adopted and was brought over to the U.S. In 1936, GH Bass launched their famous penny-style loafers that were all the rage in the '50s beloved by legends like Buddy Holly, James Dean and Elvis Presley. In 1953, Gucci launched the equestrian-style horsebit loafer, which is a classic iteration all its own. From preppy lace-ups to sleek slides to platform versions, loafers have remained a fashion mainstay decade after decade. Now, Gen-Z is giving them a whirl with fans like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Lily Collins sporting their loafers. We found all styles at all price points, so you can choose your fave this season, and we stumbled across some cheap-and-chic Gucci-style loafers, so you can look smart and still save for all your holiday shopping. Enjoy!

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19 Best Loafers for Women

1. Bass Whitney Weejun Loafer, $155 at G.H. Bass

Do you know why this classic style is called a "penny loafer?" Supposedly back in the day, phone booths (remember those!) used to cost two cents, so kids could stick a penny in each shoe to make a call. Pretty and practical! Bass Whitney Weejun Loafer, $155 at G.H. Bass

2. Banana Republic Luz Haircalf Leather Loafers, $300 at Banana Republic

These have the perfect jetset vibe. Banana Republic Luz Haircalf Leather Loafers, $300 at Banana Republic

3. Franco Sarto Carolyyn Tassel Loafer, $79.95 on Amazon

With over 4,000 four-star-plus reviews, this patent leather loafers are a wardrobe must-have. Franco Sarto Carolyyn Tassel Loafer, $79.95 on Amazon

4. Beausseen Driving Loafers, $43.99 on Amazon

Available in 12 cool colors like gold, purple, and lime green, these playful loafers are a fun twist on the classics. Beausseen Driving Loafers, $43.99 on Amazon

5. Tory Burch Perrine Loafer, $328 at Zappos

The metal hardware, grey color, and square-toe make these the perfect all-season loafer. Tory Burch Perrine Loafer, $328 at Zappos

6. Bueno Bristol Loafer, $109.99 at DSW

Elevate your workday with these two-tone leather loafers. Bueno Bristol Loafer, $109.99 at DSW

7. Sam Edelman Lennon Loafers, $150 at Free People

These loafers resemble the look of the trending Gucci mule platform are affordable and gorgeous in their own right. Sam Edelman Lennon Loafers, $150 at Free People

8. Steve Madden Kandi Slip-On Mules, $69.95 at Zappos

We love this Crocodile slip-on for its added elegance. Steve Madden Kandi Slip-On Mules, $69.95 at Zappos

9. Jeffrey Campbell Ecole Loafer Heels, $175 at Anthropologie

Sophisticated and sexy, these are perfect for work or play. Jeffrey Campbell Ecole Loafer Heels, $175 at Anthropologie

10. Bernardo Suri Platform Mules, $248 at Anthropologie

These orange suede mules are at the top of our holiday list! Bernardo Suri Platform Mules, $248 at Anthropologie

11. Cole Haan Lace-Up Loafers, $101.69 at Zappos

Perfect for weekend out-and-abouting, these loafers are so easy and cool. Cole Haan Lace-Up Loafers, $101.69 at Zappos

12. Dolce Vita Crys Loafers, $114.95 at Zappos

Available in a variety of colors and leathers, these Italian-style loafers make a great holiday gift for multi-generationsDolce Vita Crys Loafers, $114.95 at Zappos

13. Amazon Essentials Flat Loafers, $25.20 on Amazon

At just $25 with almost 8,000 four-star reviews, you can afford to get these easy, peasy, comfy flats in every color! Amazon Essentials Flat Loafers, $25.20 on Amazon

14. Bueno Illy Loafer, $99.99 at DSW

Add some much-needed whimsy and joy into your day with these bow-accented loafers. Bueno Illy Loafer, $99.99 at DSW

15. The Bradley Lugsole Loafer in Leather, $158 at Madewell

If loafers could be bad-ass, these would be them! The Bradley Lugsole Loafer in Leather, $158 at Madewell

16. Jeffrey Campbell Velviteen Bit Loafer, $114.95 at Nordstrom

The red loafers, inspired by Gucci's famous versions, are everything. Jeffrey Campbell Velviteen Bit Loafer, $114.95 at Nordstrom

17. Lands End Comfort Penny Loafer, $104.95 at Zappos

You can literally wear these chic navy loafers all dayLands End Comfort Penny Loafer, $104.95 at Zappos

18. Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer, $149.95 on Amazon

Save hundreds sporting these stylish black patent loafers. Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer, $149.95 on Amazon

19. Sam Edelman Loraine Glitz Loafers, $149.99 at Dillard's

Hold the phone! These glitzy loafers demand your attention. Sam Edelman Loraine Glitz Loafers, $149.99 at Dillard's