In recent years, loafers have transcended their prep school, country club origins to become an absolute wardrobe must. They fill a role that no other shoe can—they’re smart and polished while still being comfortable and cool. Think of them as the trench coat of the shoe world: unisex and impossibly elegant in nearly every iteration. They’re at their best when they’re their most classic, meaning no superfluous addendums like wild colors, studs, or overwrought hardware are required to make them sing. A version of these timeless pairs can be found at every major luxury brand from The Row to Celine, Khaite, and of course, Gucci. But it’s not just the high-end labels you can count on for the classics. More accessibly-priced brands like G.H. Bass have been making traditional Weejuns since 1936.
As for how to style loafers, there are a myriad of ways to channel their inherent sophistication while staying true to your personal style. Below, we mapped out eight looks for fall that show you how to do just that. Whether you’re a denim girl, default to modern suiting, or love a sporty short for day, there’s a loafer moment just for you.
Vogue’s Favorite Fall Loafers
- The New Classic: Maison Margiela Tabi loafers, $1,150
- The Ultra-Luxe: The Row Novus leather loafers, $1,470
- The Lighter Side: Yuni Buffa loafers, $445
- The Lug-Sole Pair: Tod’s lugsole penny loafers, $725
- The Original: G.H. Bass Weejuns loafers, $175
- The Tried and True: Gucci Horsebit 1953 loafers, $990
- The Editor-Favorite: Emme Parsons Danielle suede loafers, $525
- The Under-$300 Find: Vince leather loafers, $250
Make the Miniskirt All Grown Up
The gray pleated mini may have prep school associations, until you pair one with super luxe knitted pieces by Lisa Yang and Baserange. The look reads grown-up-but-still-youthful thanks to a Loewe puzzle tote and Margiela Tabi loafers.
Add Elegance to Classic Denim
The mix of medium-wash ’90s denim by Agolde with cashmere socks and loafers is a classic one. A button-down and Victoria Beckham double breasted blazer continues the theme and gives all the best rich mom vibes.
Bring an Element of Polish to Sporty Shorts
Sport shorts don’t have to read “soccer practice.” This classic red pair from adidas benefits from a sharp trench and easy tee. Just add loafers and a cashmere cap and you’ve elevated the game.
Ground a Tonal Look With Black Accents
Get the most out of every piece you invest in by getting creative with how you wear it. This Proenza Schouler White Label sleeveless dress is lovely for evening with heels and a little clutch, but toss on monochromatic separates like a Toteme scarf and long Marant Étoile long blazer and you’ve instantly breathed in new life. Drive the point home with an Alaïa mesh bag.
Give Long Shorts the Preppy Treatment
Bermuda shorts can feel like an unapproachable trend—until you actually start to wear them. A sleeveless sweater layered under a Miu Miu bomber can feel like a revelation with a graphic Loewe scarf tied around your neck insouciantly. And a brown suede bag by Aesther Akme and Gucci loafers make the chicest accompaniment to a white denim trouser short.
Effortlessly Anchor Suit Separates With Suede Extras
Modern suiting now includes elements like a tailored vest with coordinating trousers, like this set by Kallmeyer, in a deep khaki green hue. When worn with a bold amber necklace, a relaxed trench by The Row, and textural touches by way of a suede bag and shoes, your whole workwear moment becomes just impossibly polished.
Create a Refined Weekend Look With Flowing Trousers
Skip your go-to kitten heels or ballerinas in favor of loafers with slightly oversized, flowing trousers. Add a fitted Tove blazer and of-the-moment sculptural silver cuff by Alexis Bittar for a lesson in perfect proportions. A striped Kule tank gives a graphic edge.
Pair Loafers With a Denim Midi
A denim midiskirt feels right on time for fall. Mix up the styling with an oversized argyle sweater vest from Cos, ivory loafers, and an oversized tote from St. Agni. Silver Bottega Veneta earrings offer unexpected shine.
Shop more of the best loafers of the season: