Few footwear silhouettes can move seamlessly between a two-piece power suit, varsity jacket with track pants, and head-to-toe denim. But the best-designed loafers take the challenge and run with it. And in recent seasons, loafers have been popping up on runways and street corners the world over.

Toeing the line between relaxed casual and clean sophistication, the familiarity and versatility of this preppy shoe endear it to high-end luxury labels, heritage footwear purveyors, and the ever-evolving streetwear community, solidifying its relevance in the fashion world. And although the style was most popular in the menswear scene of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the loafer has become a favorite for fashionable modern women.

Now reimagined by an array of brands including Prada, Saint Laurent, and Gucci, the shoe has grown far beyond its classic penny loafer look.

With so many loafer styles available, choosing the best loafer type for your unique wardrobe can be challenging. Whether dressing for the office, a formal gala, or a casual night out with friends, this list of our eight favorite women’s loafers includes a style to satisfy every taste:

1. Fendi Lock Calfskin Medallion Moccasin Loafers

Known for luxury garments and elegant bags, Fendi has also made a name for itself in the footwear space. This Italian-made slip-on calfskin moccasin epitomizes the type of quality the label is renowned for. Calfskin leather envelops the upper base and outsole, with the brand’s signature golden logo medallion running across the vamp.

2. Prada Monolith Leather Logo Platform Loafers

If you’re looking to add a bit of extra height to your frame, Prada’s platform loafers rise to the occasion. A thick rubber outsole tread offsets the smooth leather finish blanketing the entire upper portion. Other standout features include a round moc toe and a vamp that features a branded triangle logo keeper.

3. The Row Fairy Bicolor Suede Ballerina Loafers

Every “best of'' list needs at least one wildcard option that stands apart from the rest. Enter the ballerina-style suede loafer from The Row. Two-toned suede with dyed shearling envelops the upper, while a flat-heel rubber sole sits at the bottom. 

4. Gianvito Rossi Suede Flat Penny Loafers

Although butter-soft suede shrouds the upper of this Italian label’s suede loafer, supple leather lines the interior. Other key features include a round apron toe, a notched camp with a keeper strap, and a padded rubber outsole ideal for user comfort. 

5. Christian Louboutin Daisy Spikes Patent Red Sole Loafers

These unique patent leather loafers prove that Christian Louboutin’s skills aren’t limited to red-bottomed heels. A three-dimensional daisy spike runs across the vamp, accenting the label’s signature red rubber outsole, with a round moc toe formation that rounds out the stylish design.

6. Proenza Schouler Calfskin Square-Toe Loafers

The flat square toe of Proenza Schouler’s calfskin loafer is a classic take on the popular loafer silhouette, making it an ideal choice for both formal and smart-casual occasions. High-quality calf leather forms the upper while also appearing on both the outsole and interior lining.

7. Tod’s Gomma Leather Block-Heel Penny Loafers

Although block heel shoes gained popularity in the ‘70s, the Gomma leather loafer is a prime example of the diligent work specialized luxury labels like Tod’s are doing to keep block heels top of mind. Premium leather appears all throughout the upper and interior lining. A keeper strap is located along the vamp with an almond toe shape informing the front area.

8. Chloé Jamie Leather Tassel Loafers

Tassel loafers made their debut years ago, and they’re another popular silhouette that continues to make waves. This tassel loafer from Chloé features a thick crepe-style rubber outsole along the bottom and leather all throughout the upper, with a decorative kiltie flap and tassels along the vamp.

Now that you’ve landed on the perfect luxe designer loafer style, it’s time to work them into your wardrobe roster. Stand out from the crowd with these helpful styling tips:

PAIR WITH A MIDI SKIRT

Team a pair of classic black leather loafers with a skirt and socks to tap into the reemerging schoolgirl aesthetic days.

Helsinki Street Style Spring 2023

Style loves contrast. One surefire way to achieve this is to pit cozy casual against clean sophistication. Next time you head out for weekend errands, couple wide-leg denim with a platform loafer set.

A BIT OF HERITAGE

Slip-on loafers and knit cardigans are two statement pieces with sartorial ties to the sophisticated preppy genre. When paired together, both help bridge the gap between cozy casual and trendy vintage. Consider slipping on a pair of heeled loafers alongside an oversized knit cardigan and leggings.

POWER SUIT

Suits have become a wardrobe essential, and loafers add the perfect finishing touch. Consider teaming a pair of loafers with a pinstripe suit.

Women’s loafers will remain an integral part of contemporary style codes for years to come, with designer labels incorporating this time-honored slip-on shoe into their collections season after season. 

If you’d like guidance selecting the best loafer design, book an in-person or virtual appointment with a Bergdorf Goodman stylist or personal shopper for bespoke styling advice tailored to your unique taste and body type.