Just 23 Stylish Loafers That’ll Elevate Literally Any Outfit

Loafers are a staple that should be in everyone's shoe collection, but there's lot to sort through if you're looking for the perfect pair. There are multiple variations on the style, too: penny loafers, derbys, mules, platforms, and heeled versions, to name just some of the loafer mutations out there. For starters, let's talk about what, exactly, a loafer is: Lauren Bucquet, designer of shoe brand Labucq, says they're loosely defined as "a slip-on shoe without any laces with stitching around the front." Another factor that can make your decision even harder is the comfort factor. Some styles are quite stiff at first and and require a longer breaking-in period, while other pairs can be clunky or way too narrow.

According to Paule Tenaillon and Marine Braquet, designers of the shoe brand Nomasei, key features to pay attention to when you're shopping for loafers include a flexible sole, a vamp that isn't overly tight, and a slight lift so that it's not too flat. Tenaillon and Braquet also suggest this genius trick to avoid blisters when you do buy a stiffer pair: "It’s a good idea to wear them around the house with wet socks to help the leather soften first." Bucquet is also a fan of this breaking-in strategy: She recommends wearing socks with them for the first couple wears outside the house until they become softer, and notes that high quality leather will better mold to your foot over time. So, even if those buttery ones you've been eyeing might be more $$$, they'll be well worth the investment once they're shaped perfectly to your feet.

While loafers tend to be associated with preppy styles (you're prob picturing pleated skirts and button-ups), you can truly wear them with basically anything! Bucquet tends to wear hers with jeans and a white T-shirt to slightly elevate an overall casual outfit; Tenaillon and Braquet suggest going for a '70s vibe by pairing with lace pants, throwing 'em on with a mini skirt for more of a mod look, or adding a pair of bright socks for a total moment.

Our top picks for the best loafers of 2022:

Now that you've got the loafer lowdown, here are 23 of the best pairs out there, with some designer-vetted faves from Tenaillon, Braquet, and Bucquet in the mix, too. There's a range of comfortable, designer, trendy, and simply timeless styles, so you'll know you found your perfect pair right when you see 'em.

Sam Edelman

nordstrom.com

$124.96

Shop Now

This Sam Edelman style has 1k+ reviews and an impressive 4.6-star rating out of 5. It also comes in a bunch of other colors and has a horsebit detail to add some polish to an already elegant, soft leather loafer.

Glowing Review: "Bought these on my sister's recommendation (she swears by them), and they are by far one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn."

Sperry

amazon.com

$110.00

Shop Now

Sure, you might associate Sperry with boat shoes, but the brand has great loafers, too. Case in point: These penny loafers that have more than 2,500 reviews and a 4.4-star rating out of 5.

Glowing Review: "These loafers didn't require any breaking in; they felt perfect the first time I tried them on. They offer more support and cushion than most loafers, and I keep describing them as 'walking on pillows.'"

RAID

$56.00

Shop Now

If your feet aren't narrow, try on these cute chunky ones that have a wide-fit. The contrast stitching makes them stand out a bit more, and the price on these ain't bad either!

Madewell

madewell.com

$158.00

Shop Now

Madewell's "Corinne" style is one of its best-sellers, and it comes in this gorgeous, rich brown shade as well as black. It's also made from leather that uses less water and energy than a standard tanning process.

Glowing Review: "I've always loved loafers, but now that chunky loafers are in, I finally found ones that look good on me. These loafers are ... *chef's kiss* perfection. Walking-on-cloud comfortable, stylish, and fun."

Chelsea Paris

https://www.neimanmarcus.com

$350.00

Shop Now

A dramatic square-toe design will get you so many compliments. Handmade in Portugal, these tassel loafers are a showstopper that also come in black and red.

Nomasei

nomasei.com

$490.00

Shop Now

The crisp contrast stitching paired with handmade brass embellishments on the vamp makes these feel special. The heel height is 2.5 inches to give a little extra lift, and the insole has memory-foam lining so they're still easy on your feet.

Tod's

tods.com

$595.00

Shop Now

You can't talk about loafers without including Tod's in the convo. The Italian brand's "Gommino" drivers probably come to mind when you hear the name. Tenaillon and Braquet recommend the iconic style because they truly feel like slippers.

Nisolo

nordstrom.com

$160.00

Shop Now

A d'Orsay style gives you more airflow in warmer temperatures thanks to the cutouts. These Nisolo ones come in three other neutral shades and have a 4.5-star rating out of 5.

Glowing Review: "These shoes are adorable, and I get compliments on them everything I where them. True to size and super comfortable. They were a bit stiff out of the box, but I just wore them around the house for a few hours with a pair of athletic socks and then they were perfect."

Labucq

labucq.com

$460.00

Shop Now

A cross between a moccasin and a slip-on loafer, this Labucq design has a perfect 5-star rating and they're surprisingly lightweight.

Glowing Review: "They are beautiful, well-constructed white loafers, slide-on like mule with a low heel. Very comfy and durable too. I feel posh when I wear them."

Rothy's

rothys.com

$110.00

Shop Now

Rothy's knit shoes are some of the comfiest out there, and the same rings true for its loafers. These drivers come in three other shades. Plus, as a bonus: they're machine washable!

Coach

coachoutlet.com

$119.00

Shop Now

Slide these babies on when you're running late and need to throw something on before leaving your place. The gold hardware gives them some sparkle, and they'd look good with wide-leg pants or shorts for the summer.

Glowing Review: "I love them!!! Very stylish and sleek. Leather is very good quality, nice and soft."

Tory Burch

nordstrom.com

$328.00

Shop Now

The pebbled leather on this style is so soft and comfortable, and the dragon head gold hardware will make them hands down the most luxe shoes in your closet. It also has a 4.8-star rating out of 5 with over 70 reviews.

Glowing Review: "I love it!! It is so comfortable, and I love the gold hardware. Such a statement piece."

G.H. Bass

ghbass.com

$135.00

Shop Now

Bucquet is a fan of Weejuns, especially the black-and-white style, for their classic look. Many fashion industry folks also gravitate toward this specific pair because of the day-to-night versatility factor.

Margaux

margauxny.com

$298.00

Shop Now

Margaux's penny loafers are handmade in Spain and are flexible so they move with you. With almost 100 reviews and a 4.8-star out of 5 stars, these make a great investment.

Glowing Review: "Fit, comfort, good workmanship, AND style! All at a reasonable price for this gorgeous shoe!

Vagabond Shoemakers

$175.00

Shop Now

Celebs like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid have been spotted wearing this specific style on multiple occasions. Made from recycled polyester, you'll get some height wearing these platform-like loafers.

Zou Xou

$285.00

Shop Now

How stunning are these tan patent leather shoes? The "chain" detail is made of the same material, and the thick sole will feel sturdy if you're walking around in these all day.

Brother Vellies

brothervellies.com

$615.00

Shop Now

The logo on these suede ones is subtle yet gives them a pretty touch. They're a designer piece that you can wear over and over again since this chocolate hue will go with so many outfits.

Dr. Martens

drmartens.com

$130.00

Shop Now

This dark burgundy hue is so pretty, and if you want loafers that have a little more movement when you walk, the tassles on these are just what you're looking for. These have a 4.4-star rating out of 5 with more than 40 reviews.

Glowing Review: "These are the best loafers I’ve ever worn. I love how they look and they last forever. I would recommend sizing down since they do run big."

Gucci

gucci.com

$920.00

Shop Now

Tenaillon and Braquet recommend these Gucci ones for their timeless chicness, excellent quality, and comfort. Yes, they're expensive, but they're a kind of staple shoe that'll be in your closet for a lifetime.

Chelsea Paris

revolve.com

$450.00

Shop Now

For a bright white heeled loafer, this Chelsea Paris design will be up your alley. There's a small pull tab on the heel so it's easy to take on and off and, of course, the gold chain detail on the vamp adds some flare.

M.Gemi

mgemi.com

$198.00

Shop Now

M. Gemi's driver are one of its most popular styles for a reason. They have a 4.8-star rating out of 5 with almost 1,000 reviews thanks to the soft lining and the glove-like fit that molds to your feet. It's a sophisticated shoe that's still casual enough to pair with jeans on the weekend.

Glowing Review: "Very comfy and beautiful. Love them! I highly recommend them."

Ganni

$308.00

Shop Now

We love a good classic loafer with contrast stitching; plus, that crystal button adds just the right amount of whimsy.

Prada

$1100.00

Shop Now

High chance you've seen this Prada pair grace your Instagram newsfeed at least once. Fashion influencers are allll about them at the moment; Tenaillon and Braquet also recommend these for their '90s vibe that's very on trend at the moment.