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 iterations on the style, too: penny loafers, derbys, mules, platforms, and heeled versions, to name just some of the varieties out there. But first, let’s talk about what a loafer actually 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 too narrow in the toe box.
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 a preppy vibe (you’re prob picturing pleated skirts, button-ups, and knee-high socks), you can truly wear them with anything! Bucquet says she wears 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 wearing them with lace pants, throwing ’em on with a mini skirt for more of a mod look, or adding a pair of bright socks to make more of an eye-catching statement.
Our top picks for the best loafers of 2022:
Now that you’ve got the loafer lowdown, here are 28 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, luxe, trendy, and simply timeless styles, so you’ll know you found your perfect pair right when you see ’em.