Penny, Fringe and Boat-Style: 25 Loafers to Carry You Through Every Season

Shoes can make or break an outfit. Sometimes sneakers feel too casual, heels a little over-the-top, and sandals aren’t quite fit for the forecast. So where do you turn? Enter loafers – a sharp, timeless silhouette that says “I know what I’m doing” without trying too hard.

The loafer has been around for decades, but in recent years it’s seen something of a style renaissance – rebranded from uniform corporate attire to contemporary streetwear. Made in a range of hues, materials and shapes – from shiny patent numbers and silver, square-toed options to chunky lug soles – they’re an easy way to inject a pop of interest into your ensemble.

On a practical note, they’re also a comfortable pick and great for everyday wear. Pair loafers with your favourite jeans and a nice top combo. Or go for a more preppy look with a miniskirt and your longest coat. In either case, loafers are best worn with socks or standout stockings.

If you’re looking to invest in a new pair, we rounded up 25 of the season’s best styles to shop.

The best loafers to shop this season

Penny loafers

Classic penny-style loafers get their name from the small cutout across the strap, just wide enough to hold payphone change. While we no longer carry coins in our footwear (and public phones are free), the easy-to-walk-in silhouette endures. Slip into shiny patent styles or embrace an autumnal feel with warm tones and plush suede pairs.

Boat shoes

These grippy styles earned their cool on Miu Miu’s SS24 runway, where the dad-approved silhouette underwent a chic-ification, thanks to bleached and distressed leathers giving it an edgier spin. While materials change, eyelets, rope detailing and a sturdy sole do the hard work, whether you’re on the water or firmly on dry land.

Simple and sleek loafers

Since The Row debuted its round-toe, subtly scrunched take on loafers, others have followed suit, embracing a pared-back and minimalist approach to the traditional silhouette. Soles are (nearly) flat, toe shapes are sleek, and a clutch of local labels are crafting them in Italy.

Boho chic loafers

Boho is back – and this season brings a flurry of fringe, studs and tassels to both your wardrobe and shoedrobe. Silhouettes range from scrunched styles to more traditional penny loafers, with Wales Bonner’s latest offering a fresh take on the snoafer – the once-maligned sneaker-loafer hybrid. The silhouette varies, but the detailing is where the fun lies.

Chunky loafers

Lug soles bring an updated look to the classic loafer, adding a slight edge to your outfit. Go for chunky, boxy silhouettes finished in patent, pebbled and matte leather looks. Or step things up with heeled styles for extra stomp.

We hope you like the products we recommend on Broadsheet. Our editors select each one independently. Broadsheet may receive an affiliate commission when you follow some links.