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.
Loafters 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.
November 3, 2022
Written By:Rank & Style
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
Steve Madden Carrine Leather Loafer
Overall Score
4.4
10
Steve Madden Carrine Leather Loafer
4.6
29 User Reviews
2.3
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 Under $100
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Steve Madden has officially done it again with these classic leather loafers. Available in a range of colors from pale pink to a velvet leopard print, there's an option for every fall activity or event. For a polished pair that matches everything, you can't go wrong with black.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These shoes have a unique apron toe that you don't see often in women's footwear. The point comes to a rounded taper for a super chic effect.
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Sperry Seaport Penny Loafer
Overall Score
4.4
09
Sperry Seaport Penny Loafer
4.57
268 User Reviews
2.7
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 Cushion
WHO IT'S FOR
If you're looking for something comfortable, these classic penny loafers are perfect. With a memory-foam footbed and EVA sole to cushion every step, they're the kind of shoes you can wear all day long without wanting to kick them off.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The rubber outsole has recently been updated with Sperry Wave-Siping for superior traction, so they won't have you slipping and sliding in wet weather.
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Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flat
Overall Score
4.5
08
Amazon Essentials Women's Loafer Flat
4.1
7641 User Reviews
3.3
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 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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Birdies The Starling
Overall Score
4.55
07
Birdies The Starling
4.6
19948 User Reviews
3.3
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 Smoking Slipper
WHO IT'S FOR
If you're going for a slipper vibe, the Starling Loafer is for you. They're super sturdy thanks to the nonslip sole, cushioned footbed, and arch support. Plus, with rich velvet and a range of gorgeous shades, they'll add instant elegance to every outfit you pair them with.
AS SEEN ON
We're not surprised that Meghan Markle is a big fan of Birdies—they're designed for women on the go.
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Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
Overall Score
4.6
06
Tory Burch Ballet Loafers
4.9
166 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 Ballet Loafer
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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J.Crew Rowan Penny Loafers In Leather
Overall Score
4.6
05
J.Crew Rowan Penny Loafers In Leather
4
14 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 Penny Loafer
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
These chunky loafers are a modern footwear dream. The platform soles are super trendy right now because they elevate the standard style from a demure basic into a casual-cool staple you'll never want to take off.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These loafers are eco-friendly. The leather was sourced from an LWG (Leather Working Group) certified tannery that promotes sustainable practices in the industry.
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Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
Overall Score
4.65
04
Gucci Brixton Convertible Loafer
4.7
357 User Reviews
2.8
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 Investment
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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M.Gemi The Felize
Overall Score
4.65
03
M.Gemi The Felize
4.74
791 User Reviews
3
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 Loafer
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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Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
Overall Score
4.7
02
Madewell The Corinne Lugsole Loafer
4.19
257 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 Lug Sole
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
The Lugsole Loafer is a popular spin on the classic edition. For times when you want a little extra fun in your footwear, these '90s-inspired chunky shoes are perfect. Just pair them with a fall midi skirt or some wide-leg pants, and be prepared for tons of compliments.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
These shoes are made from ISA LITE (Low Impact To the Environment) leather, so you don't have to sacrifice sustainability for style.
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Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
Overall Score
5
01
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
4.66
1612 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
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 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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