Summer may be all about sandals and winter all about boots, but fall is the time for a different kind of shoe. As the temperatures steadily drop, the need for a staple pair of seasonally appropriate footwear skyrockets. If you've been on the hunt for the latest It shoe, look no further than loafers. No longer the boring penny loafers of way back when, the shoes on this list are trendier than ever.
Loafers are perfect for transitional weather—the kind that might be warm enough for a lighter shoe, but might also require a little coverage if a chill hits. Not only that, but they're also polished enough for work, comfortable enough for walking, and versatile enough to pair with pretty much everything. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll amongst the falling leaves or headed to the office, you can do practically anything in a pair of loafers.
How We Found The Best Loafers
We could sing the praises of this put-together shoe for ages, but we'll go ahead and get to the good part. Below, we're bringing you a science-backed list of the most popular loafers on the internet—all of which were ranked and approved by our data-driven algorithm that factors in user reviews, best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, and more. From iconic designer options to Meghan Markle's faves to finds you won't believe ring up under $100, keep scrolling to discover and shop the Top 10 loafers you can buy.
August 23, 2024
Written By:Naomi Venerable
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Dolce Vita Beny Loafer
Overall Score
4.45
10
Dolce Vita Beny Loafer
4.5
31 User Reviews
2.3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Square-Toe Loafers
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
From the whipstitching to the square toe, the Benny Loafer is Dolce Vita's modern take on a classic style. The masterfully minimal penny loafer pairs well with both casualwear and formal attire.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The Benny Loafer is available in seven styles, including distressed, crinkle, and suede versions.
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Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Loafers
Overall Score
4.5
09
Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Loafers
4.44
1843 User Reviews
3.2
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Loafers are inspired by traditional men's loafers. The chunky platform bottom and tailored tassel details bring extra style to this modern lug-soled loafer, which can take you from a day at the office to after-work drinks.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These under-$100 penny loafers come in more than 10 different colors and patterns, from Black Patent to Spiced Pear Snake.
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Tory Burch Classic Loafer
Overall Score
4.55
08
Tory Burch Classic Loafer
4.85
612 User Reviews
2.9
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Classic Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With their sleek leather, shiny hardware, and barely-there heel, these stunning loafers are the epitome of Tory Burch—and certainly worth the splurge.
STYLE WITH
These elegant loafers can be dressed up or down for any occasion. Throw on some classic jeans to run errands or spruce them up with tailored pants for the office.
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M.Gemi The Felize
Overall Score
4.6
07
M.Gemi The Felize
4.8
944 User Reviews
3
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Moccasin Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
These have been waitlisted over 36,000 times, and it's not hard to see why. Handmade in a tiny Tuscany workshop, each shoe is beautifully crafted down to every last detail—including taking a flame to the edges to singe away any loose threads.
WHY WE LOVE IT
"These are the most comfortable flats I have ever worn—no break-in period necessary. The suede is so soft, they instantly mold to your foot. These might be my new go-to travel shoes."—Beth Zerdecki, Chief Product Officer
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Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
Overall Score
4.6
06
Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
54.8
1079 User Reviews
3.1
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Ballet Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Combining a ballet flat and a loafer, these slender, lightweight loafers are easy to slip on and even easier to pair with just about anything in your closet. The understated design is neutral but still adds the perfect amount of flair to your outfits.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
According to reviewers, this pair of loafers are comfortable enough to wear straight out of the box and requires no break in period.
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Rothy's The Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
05
Rothy's The Loafer
4.6
13759 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Minimal Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With more than 12,000 reviews and a nearly 5-star rating, its clear to us these pair of shoes from Rothy's are not your average pair of loafers. Built with a flexible, seamless construction and outsoles designed to last, adding this this machine washable loafer to your closet is a no-brainer.
ABOUT THE BRAND
Launched in 2016, Rothy's is an eco-friendly brand that keeps the planet in mind in all that they create, from using sustainable materials to crafting machine washable shoe styles.
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Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
04
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
4.1
611 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Lugsole Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With their sleek leather, shiny hardware, and chunky lug sole, these 90's inspired loafers from Madewell are a great alternative to booties —and certainly worth the splurge.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Whether you grab them in True Black or Dried Maple, these fall loafers will instantly add a chic yet polished touch to everything in your closet this season.
Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
03
Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer
4.45
535 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Penny Loafers
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The Lux Pinch Penny Loafer is the epitome of quiet luxury. The sophisticated style features subtle brand hardware and ruched detailing on the leather upper, while three distinct layers of foam in the sole deliver shock absorption, arch support, and exceptional cushioning with every step.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
If you have a lower instep or narrow foot, Cole Haan recommends sizing down by half a size for the most comfortable fit.
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Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
Overall Score
4.8
02
Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
4.67
292 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Designer Loafers
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
One of Gucci's iconic loafer designs, the Brixton is basically like getting two pairs of luxury shoes for the price of one. You can wear them as classic loafers or fold the flexible heel and sport them as breezy mules.
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Besides the whole two-shoes-in-one thing, the leather of Gucci's loafers is known to age like fine wine. These are a closet staple and will be for years—no doubt about it.
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Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
Overall Score
4.85
01
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
4.46
6870 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Loafers Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
The Loraine Loafers are not only selling like hotcakes among Rank & Style readers but also among the staff. Our Digital Marketing Manager says they're the softest ones she's ever worn, even more so than Gucci's iconic Jordaan Loafer. Yeah, we said it.
PROMISING REVIEW
"Exceptionally comfortable! I wore these straight from the box with zero issues. No rubbing or blisters. They fit perfectl,y and for me, sizing ran accurate (I wear a large 8.5 or accurate 9 and bought the 9 in these). I will likely buy them in other colors as they are perfect for work and just walking the dog around the neighborhood."
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