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.
September 6, 2023
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
Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flat
Overall Score
4.35
10
Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flat
4.1
9581 User Reviews
3.3
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 Loafers On Amazon
USER REVIEW
"I love these shoes. This is my third (or fourth) order, and I’ll keep ordering them as long as they are available. They are my go-to shoes and I wear them nearly every day. The days I’m not wearing them, I’m either in my house slippers or barefoot. The price and the fact that they arrive the day after I order them just makes them better."
HELPFUL TIP
Reviewers recommend going up a half or full size since these loafers are narrow in the toes.
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Prada Leather Triangle Logo Loafers
Overall Score
4.45
09
Prada Leather Triangle Logo Loafers
4.34
54 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
3
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 Heeled Loafers
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Polished and sleek, this pair of Prada loafers are a flashback from the 90s but are still of the moment as ever. The spazzolato leather loafer requires no break in period which means they're comfortable from the start. Plus, the triangular Prada hardware is an iconic feature that's sure to elevate any outfit.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Fun Fact: These loafers also feature a ridge soled resembling tiny chocolate bars.
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Sam Edelman Colin Penny Loafer
Overall Score
4.55
08
Sam Edelman Colin Penny Loafer
4.8
177 User Reviews
2.6
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
Like the classic penny loafers from the 90s, these loafers have a timeless appeal that makes them easy to wear with everything from a pair of work pants to a midi skirt.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Sam Edelman's Colin Penny Loafer comes in 5 colors, including Spiced Brandy, Brown, Black, and Modern Ivory.
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Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
Overall Score
4.65
07
Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
4.8
168 User Reviews
2.6
Best Seller
3
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 Ballet 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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Rothy's The Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
06
Rothy's The Loafer
4.6
12920 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 Machine-Washable 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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Cole Haan York Bow Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
05
Cole Haan York Bow Loafer
4.8
64 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 Bow Loafers
WHO IT'S FOR
Crafted from premium leather, this loafer is perfect for those wanting to add a touch of classic refinement to their work or casual outfits. The smart silhouette is equal parts sophisticated and versatile, so you can count on them to go with anything already in your closet.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The soft leather construction delivers a glove like fit and the rubber molded outsole ensures traction and durability.
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Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
Overall Score
4.7
04
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
4.13
778 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 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
4.7
03
M.Gemi The Felize
4.8
1050 User Reviews
3.1
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 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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Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
Overall Score
4.8
02
Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
4.68
420 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
4.9
01
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
4.59
2909 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.
USER 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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