Loafers May Be Trending, But These 15 Pairs Will Remain in Your Closet Forever

Like many of you, I've retired most of my heels in recent years for, well, obvious reasons. Comfort is now my top priority when getting dressed, and I'm especially discerning when it comes to which shoes I'm going to wear. It's no surprise, then, to see that a number of comfortable (but still very chic) flat-shoe trends have emerged this past year. The number one among them? Loafers. Maybe it's because they add a polished vibe to any outfit, maybe it's because they're practical and easy to wear, or maybe it's because they're a perennial favorite that will never really go out of style. Whichever the reason, they're the dominating flat-shoe trend of the moment, and I'm so here for it.

If you've been eyeing the trend but haven't found a pair you love just yet, then look no further than the 15 best pairs of loafers that I've pulled together here. I've curated a selection from some of the top retailers, and the styles range from on-trend chunky loafers to pretty chain-embellished loafers and classic penny loafers. You're sure to find a pair you love, no matter your taste, budget, or any other factor. I took input from our team and scanned through online reviews to find the best of the best.

Whether it's a luxurious loafer from Khaite or the ultimate classic G.H.Bass style, these picks are stylish enough to wear for years to come. Keep scrolling to find your pick.

Top Loafers for Women of 2024

• J.Crew Winona Penny Loafers ($135)
• Vagabond Shoemakers Alex Loafers ($175)
• Gucci Horsebit-Detailed Leather Loafers ($990)
• Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers ($170)
• Dolce Vita Beny Loafers ($140)
• G.H.Bass Whitney Weejuns Loafers ($175)
• Free People Liv Penny Loafers ($128)
• Khaite Alessio Gloss-Leather Loafers ($1100)
• Reformation Agathea Loafers ($268)
• Prada Triangle Logo Loafers ($1200)
• Vince Naomi Loafers ($330)
• Banana Republic Navarre Loafers ($250)
• The Row Soft Loafers ($1290)
• Madewell The Corinne Loafers ($158)
• Bottega Veneta Astaire Loafers ($1100)

1. Best Overall Loafer for Women: J.Crew Winona Lug-Sole Penny Loafers

J.Crew has delivered on all fronts, from clothing to jewelry, and people should give credit to the brand's shoes, too. With nothing but five-star reviews, these loafers are worth the purchase. One reviewer said, "They feel even better than luxury designer loafers," and another wrote, "This is a classy black loafer with just enough lug sole to be timeless and on-trend." They come in a trendy metallic option as well as classic colors like black, tan, and brown.

2. Vagabond Shoemakers Alex Loafers

I had to include my personal pick of loafers, and these are it. While they fit a little snug at first, it wasn't long until I broke them in and the shoes stretched to fit my feet more comfortably. They're available in six colors, but the sheen of the polished black adds a little something special to my outfits. Reviewers seem to agree with me, one writing, "I love these shoes! They feel like they'll last a long time—the stitching, leather, and rubber sole all seem of quality. I ordered my normal size, and while they're a bit snug, loafers are supposed to be that way to compensate for not having laces. I'll be wearing these for forever."

3. Gucci Horsebit-Detailed Leather Loafers

For those wanting to invest in luxury loafers, look no further than Gucci. The shoe style is an inherent part of the brand, and even with a new creative director, you'll still find a version of the loafers among the latest runway collection. It's just too classic. Since the leather is on the stiffer end with this structured silhouette, many have suggested sizing up. For those who prefer lighter-weight loafers, Gucci's Brixton Horsebit Convertible Loafers are also an incredible option.

4. Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafer

Sam Edelman shoes are always quick to sell out on sites like Nordstrom for valid reasons. This particular loafer style not only has rave reviews but also has the backing of assistant shopping editor Ana Escalante. "As a (somewhat) proud haver of large, wide feet, it's essential for comfort to be my baseline priority. Shoe shopping, especially as an editor, can prove to be a tricky balance between wanting to look good and wanting to feel good," she told me. For her, these Sam Edelman loafers fit the bill in both style and functionality. "Not only is the inclusive sizing quite exhaustive with the style coming in up to a 13W, but the massive array of colorways and styles also means that once you find loafers that fit, you can rebuy them in multiple colors to fit your lifestyle. After wearing my wine-colored pair earlier this month while zipping around the city for New York Bridal Week, I'm sold. These might be the best-looking, most comfortable shoes I own," she continued. I'm not sure about you, but that review alone has me sold.

5. Dolce Vita Beny Loafers

Since it's part of our jobs to peruse the hundreds of pages of Nordstrom every week, it only makes sense that we find the hidden gems and share them with you right away. In this case, it's Dolce Vita's Beny Loafer, which could easily pass as a designer shoe. It features prominent whipstitching and a square toe. It also comes in six offerings from classic patent black to a luxe snakeskin.

6. G.H.Bass Whitney Weejuns Penny Loafers

For years, G.H.Bass has made quality loafers you can rely on. "No matter the season, my classic penny loafers from G.H.Bass are always in heavy rotation," said editor Anna LaPlaca of the classic style. As for the level of comfort, she sang high praises. "After just a few wears, they mold to your feet for the perfect fit that I swear makes them comfier to wear than half of the sneakers I own. Considering the brand was founded in 1876, it's clearly had the time to perfect them, and to me, it shows. My Whitney Loafers are the ultimate high-quality, long-lasting wardrobe staple," she continued.

7. Free People Liv Penny Loafer

The first thing that impressed me with these Free People loafers was the eight colors offered, including options like lime green and bright coral. The second was the burnished brass piece in the "penny keeper," referring to the original history of penny loafers. (People used to keep a penny in the strap of their loafers for a little pay phone change in the age before mobile phones.) The third thing that impressed me was the praise from reviewers. "I'm in love with these shoes! I have the G.H.Bass loafers, and these compare in many ways to the quality. I think they are mostly true to size (maybe a run touch small), and I haven't had issues with them rubbing or breaking in," one reviewer wrote. Some reviewers recommend sticking with the darker colors, as lighter colors tend to show wear more quickly.

8. Khaite Alessio Glossed-Leather Loafers

When it comes to finding classic pieces with a cool twist, Khaite is the destination. These minimalist loafers are crafted from glossed, textured leather and have a grippy ribbed sole and slight heel that offers both stability and style.

9. Reformation Agathea Chunky Loafers

Year after year, Reformation's Agathea loafers have been best sellers, and for good reason. They have a classic loafer design and a chunky sole that provides height, stability, and style. The best part is that they come in eight colorways, ranging from patent leather black to crocodile, and are priced under $300, which is great for a high-quality pair of shoes.

10. Prada Triangle Logo Loafers

In recent years, Prada's logo-branded loafers have become extremely popular among fashion enthusiasts. They are a timeless classic that can be paired with jeans, dresses, and skirts. Plus, they fit into anyone's wardrobe as they're available in patent leather and pared-back materials. Like most sought-after items, these shoes tend to sell out quickly, so it's a good idea to act fast while they're still available.

11. Vince Naomi Loafers

Vince is one of the best quiet luxury brands you can invest in. From outerwear to footwear, the designs ooze style, comfort, and sophistication. Its Naomi loafers are the perfect example, with their sleek, minimalist design that makes any outfit feel put together. They come in polished black patent leather and supple tan suede iterations. The hardest part is choosing which color to get.

12. Banana Republic Navarre Loafers

If you're looking for guaranteed-quality loafers, look no further than Banana Republic's Navarre loafers. Reviewers love how well-made and comfortable these shoes are, giving them an amazing rating. The classic design, from the stacked heel to the round toe, ensures that you'll be able to enjoy them for years to come.

13. The Row Soft Loafers

Lately, I've noticed a rising trend in the realm of loafers: crinkled leather loafers. These luxurious shoes are crafted from glossy leather, boasting a delightful texture created by cinched leather. Their opulent appearance elevates any ensemble, exuding an air of luxury that belies their price. Among this style, my personal favorite is The Row's Soft Loafers, which embody everything I seek in a shoe—a subtly pointed toe, a stacked heel, and a logo-free design.

14. Madewell The Corinne Loafers

The Corinne by Madewell is a timeless loafer style that boasts a chunky lug sole, a penny-loafer silhouette, and a smooth-leather construction. Many reviews emphasize that these loafers are an excellent choice due to their lack of break-in period. Whether you choose the black or the tan, style them with a maxi dress and cardigan for a crisp fall day out with friends.

15. Bottega Veneta Astaire Loafers

Our senior editor Allyson Payer has recently praised Bottega Veneta's Astaire loafers as one of the top choices for designer shoes this fall, and her assessment is unquestionably accurate. These exquisite flats showcase the brand's iconic knot detail that is universally adored alongside a lavish leather make. Donning these shoes would unmistakably indicate a truly discerning sense of fashion.

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This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.