For the Love of Loafers: 7 Styles Made for You

I really do love loafers. I would go so far as to say (at this present moment) that I wear loafers more than I wear trainers. This is a bit of a departure for me, as I’ve always been a sneaker girl. I mean, I still am, so don’t go thinking I’ve actually turned into a proper grown-up, but these days I find myself reaching for a nice, comfy pair of loafers more than any other footwear. The weather has got something to do with it, seeing as suede or canvas trainers are not as conducive to rainy pavements as leather boots or loafers. Also, loafers make me feel a little bit more put together.

In order to get on board with loafers, you need to find the right style for you. Think of them in the same way you would a pair of trainers: in other words, the style you pick should go with the kind of outfits you like to wear.

Are you classic? Are you fashion-forward? Do you like chunky styles, or would you prefer something slim or even backless? There’s so much choice out there, so here are seven styles and what I would wear with them.

RUCHED LOAFERS

This style is definitely my current favourite. I have these by YSL and these by M&S in my shoe wardrobe. While I prefer the look and feel of the YSL pair (I mean, I should for that price), I actually think the M&S loafers are more comfortable. They are literally like wearing slippers. I know they come in and out of stock quite a bit, so keep an eye out for restocks if they don’t currently have your size. These from Massimo Dutti are almost exactly the same as the YSL pair for a LOT less.

SUEDE LOAFERS

Get your leather and suede protector spray at the ready if you fancy a pair of these, because it’s still bloody raining. Apparently, there has been rain in the UK every single day this year so far. And in Aberdeen, they haven’t even seen a hint of the sun since the middle of January. I feel for my Scottish compadres. Although I don’t know why I’m surprised about this and, frankly, what else would we talk about if it wasn’t for the weather? But a good pair of suede loafers will take you through to summer, when it’s safe to break out the bare ankles again.

TWO TONE LOAFERS

One for those of you who want to stand out from the crowd. The two-tone loafer apparently originated from the ‘spectator shoe’ of the 1920s and 30s, so called because they were worn by men who liked to watch sports. If only we were as smart these days. There used to be a big photo at Griffin Park – the old Brentford football ground – of an FA Cup game from 1938, and every single person is wearing a suit and tie with smart shoes. Now it’s more likely to be fake Stone Island – in case it all kicks off…

At his spring/summer 2026 debut for Dior, Jonathan Anderson showed a ladylike take on two-tone loafers, embellished with logo-stamped gold hardware. They aren’t available yet, but I imagine Harry Styles already has a pair, and there are already plenty of affordable versions on the high street.

CHUNKY LOAFERS

If you want some substance to your shoes, then the chunky loafer is the one. I find this style works best with either cropped trousers or shorter skirts. If you wear a chunky loafer with full-length or wide-leg trousers, it just makes you look all bottom-heavy, so I would flash at least an ankle when going for a bulkier shoe. Then you can balance out the top half with an oversized jumper or cardigan. It’s that sandwich-dressing idea, but with fit rather than colour. I should do an update on that post soon, as it’s an easy trick that makes getting dressed in the morning a lot easier.

DESIGNER LOAFERS

You don’t have to tell me “you’re just paying for the label, you fool” because I know it – I’m a sucker for a designer pair of shoes. But I have Gucci loafers dating back to 2012 that I still wear, so for that reason alone I feel minimal guilt at blowing my budget on footwear, especially when it comes to a classic style like loafers. This Miu Miu pair is top of my wish list for this year.

BACKLESS LOAFERS

This one is looking like a strong trend for this year. Obviously not for right now, but I can see the appeal as we head into spring and summer. You don’t have to worry about blisters, as there’s no back. Also very good for travelling, as you can slip them on and off so easily. Basically a smart pair of slippers.

CLASSIC LOAFERS

If trends hold no sway with you and all you want is a timeless, classic shoe that will last for years, then the original penny-style loafer is the one to consider. They traditionally feature a slotted strap across the front, designed to be just wide enough to hold a penny. This detail became popular in the 1940s and 50s, when carrying a spare penny was genuinely useful, whether for making a phone call or buying a cigarette. What can you buy for a penny these days? That’s a rhetorical question: the answer is nothing. Although I did buy a Kindle copy of Wuthering Heights last week for just 14p, so some things are still cheap.

I’m hoping to get some serious fashion inspiration from the streets of Paris this weekend, so (fingers crossed) I can pass on what I learnt about French girl style next week.

K x

WearsMyMoney

I spent it all on clothes by the looks of things...