The best loafers for women are comfortable, stylish and versatileâthey should take you from day to night with ease. Whether youâre looking for a timeless penny loafer or modern lug sole loafer, we have recommendations. After reviewing all the top options, we named Madewellâs Bradley Lugsole the best loafer for women overall, since it strikes the right balance between style and practicality. For a pair you can walk miles in, Rothyâs The Loafer also gets top marks for its comfort and flexibility.
comfortable and easy to dress up or down.ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS
To put together this guide, we tapped the expertise of the Forbes Vetted fashion team, read reviews and considered quality, materials and design elements, such as tassels, buckles and metal hardware, that add noticeable polish. Here, all the best loafers for women that passed our tests. (For more footwear advice, we also rounded up the most comfortable flats and the best womenâs boots).
Whatâs notable: Cushioned insole, reasonable price and high-quality leather.
What could be better: These run a little big.
Madewell is well-known for their stylish-yet-affordable clothing and accessories, and The Bradley Lugsole Loafer is no exception. Theyâre constructed of genuine leather and have a thick rubber sole for added traction. Reviewers praise this shoeâs cushioned interior and say theyâre comfortable to wear for long periods of time. If they feel tight right out of the box, wearing them with thick socks helps them stretch out. Theyâre offered in four colors and a wide range of sizes.
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 4 in total, including Black and Brown | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âWith a thin sock, they were as comfortable as any sneaker. And the large sole provided a really excellent cushion when walking for miles on cobblestones and pavement.â
Zappos.com
Naturalizer Adiline Loafer
Whatâs notable: Extra cushioning absorbs impact and ergonomic design molds to your foot.
What could be better: Some say this pick runs a little big.
For a stylish option thatâs comfortable right out of the box, we recommend the Naturalizer Adiline Loafer. The brand is know for designing shoes that fit the natural curve of the foot and this particular loafer has a thick outsole, contoured footbed that will mold to your foot over time and breathable goring (i.e. stretch panels) on the sides.
Sizes: 6 to 11 | Colors: 5 total, including Black and Brown | Materials: Leather, suede | What the reviews say: âI needed a pair of loafers good for cold weather and took a chance with these. Not only fit the purpose, they are very comfortable to my soles.â
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Whatâs notable: Comfortable from the first wear, flexible knit and sustainable design.
What could be better: This pair runs a little small.
Rothyâs is well known for its washable shoes made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. The footbeds, insoles and outsoles on their shoes also happen to be extremely comfortable and cushioned, making them great for walking long distances. The top-rated Loafer is made from the same knit fabric as their bestselling flat, so you can expect the same softness and breathability. The free shipping on all orders is a nice bonus, too.
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 12 total, including Gray and Orchid | Materials: Recycled plastic bottles | What the reviews say: âPerfect work shoe: I ordered these to wear to work. Our dress code is business casual and these shoes work great with slacks. They are very comfortable, no blisters, no overheating.â
Whatâs notable: Classic style thatâs easy to dress up or down and the stacked heel adds comfort.
What could be better: Only available in two colors.
A good work shoe should be comfortable, durable and stylishâand Everlaneâs The Modern Loafer checks all of those boxes and more. The one-inch stacked heel and cushioned insole provide enough comfort for all-day wear, and the leather feels soft right out of the box. Both the black and camel colorways pair well with office outfits and transition nicely if youâre headed to a post-work happy hour or event.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Camel | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âI had these loafers in black and bought a second pair in the camel color because they are so comfortable and the perfect balance of polished and casual.â
Whatâs notable: Generous width can fit many foot sizes, and it has a cloud-like padded insole.
What could be better: No width option for those with narrow feet.
Supremely soft and comfortable, these loafers are perfect for those seeking a little extra room. Their slip-on design is less structured than other iterations on this listâi.e. Madewellâs Bradley Lugsole Loafer and G.H. Bassâs Whitney Weejunsâand they run slightly wide. (The brand recommends going down a half size if youâre in between sizes or have a narrow foot.) Choose from leather, suede, velvet, calf hair or one of the limited edition fabrics like raffia.
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 17 total, including Black Velvet and Oak Suede | Materials: Leather, suede, velvet, raffia or calf hair | What the reviews say: âThese are perfect! Iâve been walking 8+ miles per day in them and not one blister or break in period. I will be buying more. Note Iâm usually a 7.5. I bought the 8. I wear them with nylon no-show socklets to keep the inside fresh.â
Whatâs notable: Beautiful suede design that comes in multiple widths and emphasizes comfort.
What could be better: These are on the expensive side.
Whether youâre headed to the office or even a wedding, The Penny is a dressed-up version of the classic penny loafer, cut from rich suede (and thereâs one stylish calf hair option). The slip-on design has an elongated toe and comes in three different widths (medium, narrow and wide). The brand also includes a shoe horn inside each box to help your loafers slide on. Itâs a thoughtful touch that shows an attention to detail thatâs not common with all brands.
Sizes: 3 to 14 | Colors: 9 total, including Indigo Suede and Garnet | Materials: Suede or calf hair | What the reviews say: âFit perfect-true to size. I walked for a long time in the city and they are incredibly comfortable.â
Whatâs notable: Impeccable leather construction and easy, slip-on style.
What could be better: The price point is high.
Featuring a slip-on design, delicately pointed toes and gold horse-bit hardware, Gucciâs loafer is a bestselling style thatâs worth the luxury spend. Reviewers recommend sizing up because this loafer runs small. The legendary Italian house also makes a version of this mule in suede and printed canvas, if youâre feeling adventurous.
Sizes: 4 to 14 | Colors: 2 colors total, including black and white | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âBeautiful pair of shoes. True to size. Simple yet elegant. Leather is supple. The horsebait buckle is just the right amount of detail. Very comfortable. No breaking-in needed as these shoes feel like it is customized to your feet.â
G.H. Bass
G.H. Bass Whitney Weejuns Loafer
Whatâs notable: Chic classic that never goes out of style and is built to last.
What could be better: This has less padding than other options on our list.
It doesnât get more classic than G.H. Bassâs Whitney Weejuns loafers. These impeccably designed penny loafers remain true to the original created in the 1930s with a traditional beefroll style moc stitching and fully functional penny keeper. The hand-stitching, durable leather outsole and flexible unlined upper makes them comfortable and built to last for years.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 2 total, including Black and Wine | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âThese truly are a great pair of loafers and worth the price. The quality is great and they are super clean/professional looking. I didn’t have to break in at all and no blisters which is rare, so comfortable. Keep in mind before purchasing that these are very flat with very little sole.â
Amazon
Franco Sarto Carolynn Lug Sole Loafer
Whatâs notable: Stylish, lightweight and great for standing on your feet all day.
What could be better: The leather might stretch over time.
Franco Sartoâs Carolynn Tassel Loafer is more than a good-looking shoe. Itâs designed to withstand high impact with a 1.5 inch platform that actually supports your foot by keeping it on an even, elevated plane. Buyers say this loafer is surprisingly walkable and light.
Sizes: 5 to 13 | Colors: 9 total, including Black Suede and Silver | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âBeautiful shoe that fit true to size. Good arch support and sole. I wore them for an entire day right out of box. Extremely comfortable and will look great with many outfits.â
Whatâs notable: Rich leather construction and fashion-forward design.
What could better: Popular sizes sell out quickly.
Donât confuse Banana Republicâs lugsole loafers with your typical generic design from a mass retailer. These extremely well-made loafers are pricey but theyâre crafted entirely of leather (that includes the uppers, lining and soles) and the lug sole manages to provide height and traction without feeling heavy or clunky.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 2 total, including Black Patent Leather and Bone | Materials: Leather
Whatâs notable: Walkable design that you can wear all day and pairs well with many outfits.
What could be better: Silhouette might be too chunky for some.
If youâre looking for a little extra height, Coachâs â90s favorite, the Leah Platform Loafer, has a 1-inch platform and 0.75-inch heel, which elevates your foot but still keeps the overall design very wearable. The chunky style anchors everything from jeans to a maxi skirt to a flowy dress.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 4 total, including Black and Dark Green | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âFit and size was great. I will just use a shoe stretcher on the right shoe, but left is a perfect fit. They came through true to size for me. Love, love, love the style and color âbeautiful shoe and will last a long time.â
Zappos
Sam Edelman Loraine Loafer
Whatâs notable: Sleek, flat-style design with foam insole for comfort.
What could be better: Traditional look might not appeal to all.
If you want an attractive loafer thatâs comfortable for everyday wear but doesnât cost a fortune, Sam Edelmanâs Loraine Loafer is a solid pick. Similar to our best loafers for women overall, theyâre crafted from 100% leather and have a cushy foam insole thatâs supportive for walking. The understated design coupled with gold hardware is sophisticated, and this pick comes in an extensive range of colors, so you can find the shade that works best for your wardrobe.
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 50 in total, including Black Patent and White | Materials: Leather | What the reviews say: âI love these loafers, they were comfortable right out of the box and have gotten even softer with time. I have a wide forefoot average/narrow heel and always have issues with heel slippage and blistersâno problems with either with these shoes.â
Cole Haan
Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer
Whatâs notable: Classic design, high-quality leather and built-in arch support.
What could be better: Runs a bit large.
The triple-padded footbed on the Cole Haan Lux Pinch Penny Loafer makes a noticeable difference in the arch support area. Having extra cushioning gives you bounce with each step, and the flexible leather ups the comfort level. The subtle gold hardware on the side is just a nice detail.
Sizes: 5 to 11 | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Pecan | Materials: Leather, synthetic | What the reviews say: âI get compliments every time I wear these. Theyâre super comfortable and well made. Iâd buy them in every color if I could.â
Whatâs notable: Supportive design with arch support that doesnât sacrifice comfort for style.
What could be better: Some reviewers report that it runs large in the heel area.
Vionicâs shoes are designed with podiatrists to maximize foot comfort, along with style. The bestselling Kensley Loafer has enhanced arch support, thanks to the microfiber-wrapped EVA footbed and supportive leather exterior that reduces discomfort and inflammation. The slight lugsole and smooth leather provides a stylish edge.
Sizes: 5 to 12 | Colors: 10 total, including Brown and Cream | Materials: Leather, microfiber | What the reviews say: âSuper comfortable with great arch support and will make you look sophisticated with your fall fashion. I wore them for the first time at work and got lots of compliments.â
Whatâs notable: Grippy sole provides traction and the soft suede molds to your foot.
What could be better: Some find this shoe a bit narrow.
M. Gemiâs driving loafer, The Felize, is a beautifully constructed shoe thatâs soft, flexible and molds to your foot. Originally used for driving, this style of loafer is characterized by its moccasin-like appearance and a rubber sole with âbumpsâ for better traction. The hand stitching and bold colorways, like pink coral and Tuscan sun, put a modern twist on the traditional look.
Sizes: 35 (US 5) to 43 (US 12) | Colors: 10 total, including Saddle and Red | Materials: Suede | What the reviews say: âThis is my third pair, I love the quality, fit and appearance of this loafer. Comfortable and classy, can be worn casual or dressy.â
Best Of The Rest
Footwear is personal so if youâre looking for different loafers beyond the ones we selected above, we also rounded up additional options from stylish experts and our Forbes contributors. All of these picks come highly recommended and might be right for you.
Vinceâs minimalist loafer is a refined take on a classic penny style. Forbes Vetted contributor Molly Calhoun says, âI love this shoeâs soft, flexible leather, flat heel and that it feels more like a slipper than a loafer. Itâs also nice that I can wear the comfy round toe design all day without my toes feeling squished.â
While these are a splurge, this quiet luxury staple will get lots of mileage. âI like the updated square toe design and dark steel color of theseâitâs nice to have a chic option that deviates from a standard black, tan or burgundy,â says Calhoun. âPlus, theyâre a versatile style that I can wear with a dressier pant or denim.â
âThis is the best loafer hands down for the price and fit,â says personal stylist Michelle McCool. âIt narrows at the instep so it avoids looking chunky, wears well, is not too heavy and still looks feminine.â McCool advises wearing these with thin socks and a mini skirt, sweater dress or work pants. âItâs nice to show some ankle with them,â she says.
Gilt
Celine Triomphe Margaret Leather Loafer
The gold hardware and leather fringe on this designer lug-sole pair makes them extra special. âI love the masculine chunkiness of these and that they give me some height,â says fashion blogger and event host Fortune Dushey.
These preppy loafers come in suede, woven suede, raffia and even metallic silver and gold leather, and have a cushioned footbed so you can wear them for hours. âI like that I can make them look fancy or throw with jeans to make them more casual,â says event planner Lauren Schweibold. âAnd they are comfortable!â
âOne of the quickest ways to update an outfit is through shoes,â says fashion stylist Gina Donnelly. âZara is not only on par for the price and quality, but they also definitely fit within the budget and you donât feel bad switching them out seasonally.â If youâre looking for a variation on traditional black or burgundy, this metallic option with a one-inch sole can elevate an outfit and also transitions well for nighttime.
Amazon
Madden Girl Hoxtonn Loafer
âWhen loafers first started gaining popularity again, I was intrigued but not sure how much I would actually like the look on me,â says personal stylist Rachael Michael. âSo I bought these loafers to do a test drive before investing in a more expensive pair. I ended up loving the edgier look of the matte black chain and comfortable fit of the chunky platform so much that I just kept rocking themâand I still get compliments on these shoes every time I wear them!â
White shoes can seem tricky, but theyâre actually a versatile neutral that works across the seasons. âI love this loafer for its thicker sole, which gives it a little heft,â says stylist Janel Alexander. âThe ivory leather keeps it from feeling too chunky and provides a modern pop to an otherwise darker look.â
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
Here at Forbes Vetted, we approach all of our product recommendations with transparency and a critical eye. Readers trust us to provide the most accurate information available, so we consider our own firsthand experiences in the field and weigh that against testimonials from customers whoâve tried the loafers themselves.
As a team, we’ve tried on, evaluated and put a lot of clothing and accessories through the wringer to rate the performance, quality and value for your money. Our passion for high-quality footwear includes recommendations for the best workout shoes for women, as well as other topics, such as the most comfortable flats and the most comfortable sneakers for everyday wear. To make sure you get the most accurate information possible, we regularly update this list with relevant details. This story was last updated in January 2024.
How We Chose The Best Loafers For Women
To determine the best loafers for women, we read hundreds of product reviews and evaluated options from both established and newer-to-market brands. We ultimately chose the best loafers for women by determining which pairs were consistently top-rated by customers, had attractive design elements and received excellent marks for comfort, support and durability. We also considered if the shoes were available in a wide range of sizes, widths and colors and price points. The final loafers on this list reflect several weeks’ worth of in-depth research and personal vetting.
How To Shop For The Best Loafers For Women
Choose the right material: Loafers are typically made from leather, suede or canvas. Leather is known for its longevity and ability to withstand regular wear. They often present a polished, classic look, suitable for both professional and casual settings. Leather loafers can adapt to the shape of your foot over time, offering a custom fit. However, they generally require a higher investment and may need regular maintenance with leather conditioners to retain their appearance.
Suede, with its soft, napped texture, offers a luxurious feel and a distinct aesthetic. These loafers add a touch of elegance to a casual outfit. However, they are more susceptible to damage from water and stains, requiring careful maintenance and often, waterproofing treatments.
Ideal for casual wear, canvas loafers are lightweight and often available in various colors and patterns. They are a great summer option and usually more affordable. Canvas doesnât offer the same longevity as leather, though, and may not provide enough support for prolonged wear.
Consider the occasion: If youâre buying loafers for work or formal situations, look for options with a more structured design and minimal embellishments. A classic black or brown leather loafer can complement most work attire and give your foot some necessary comfort for long hours.
For casual wear, you can experiment with different materials like suede or canvas, and explore bolder colors and designs. Loafers with tassels, bright colors or unique patterns definitely add personality to a casual outfit.
Think about your budget: Loafers are available at various price points. High-end brands might offer superior craftsmanship and materials but can be expensive. Mid-range options often provide a balance of quality and affordability. Investing in a high-quality pair might be more cost-effective in the long run if youâll keep it for years.
Find the right fit: A well-fitting loafer should feel snug but not tight, offering enough room to move without slipping off. Consider trying shoes in the afternoon when feet are typically at their largest. Check for any points of discomfort, as loafers typically have a shorter break-in period compared to other shoes.
Consider the style: Classic loafers often feature a minimalist design and are versatile for most occasions. Penny loafers are characterized by a strap across the top, usually with a cut-out detail, suitable for both work and casual settings. Tassel loafers feature this decorative element and are great for adding a chic touch to your outfit. Statement loafers play up embellishments like metallic hardware, prints or bold colors, all of which can make your loafers the star of your outfit.
Should I Size Up Or Down When Buying Loafers?
The fit around the widest point of your foot (typically the ball of your foot) should feel snugâbut not tight or constricting. The same goes for the toe box, which is the part of the shoe that covers your toes; it shouldnât pinch or squeeze your toes there. If those areas feel tight or uncomfortable, thatâs a good sign you might need to size up. Keep in mind that certain materials, such as leather, might feel snug after the first wear but will stretch out over time. If your loafers feel tight right out of the box, wear them around the house with thick socks to help them stretch out a bit. If that doesnât do the trick, consider exchanging them for a different size.
How Do I Know My Size In Loafers?
To accurately measure your foot, lay a ruler flat on the ground, with one end touching the wall. Stand with your back up against the wall and note the distance from the wall to the tip of your big toe (or whichever toe is the longest). Record this measurement in inches. Now, measure the width of your foot. Place the ruler back on the ground and step onto it with the widest part of your foot (usually this over the balls of your feet). Record the distance from one end of your foot to the other. After youâve recorded the length and width, look at the size chart for the loafers youâre considering, and make the most accurate decision. Pro tip: Itâs a good idea to measure your foot at the end of the day to account for any swelling.
How Do I Choose A Pair Of Loafers?
The right pair of loafers for you will largely depend on your preferences. However, the most important things to consider are sizing, materials, comfort and design elements, such as buckles and metal hardware. If you stand all day and need a shoe that minimizes arches and pains, look for elements like a cushioned insole, flexible uppers and arch support. Leather is the most popular material for loafers because it looks polished and wears well over time, but suede and velvet are excellent choices due to their soft hand feel and flexibility. (Theyâre also a great way to add sophistication to an outfit.) Design elements are a matter of personal choice, and range from statement-making tassels to demure buckles, so make sure to look at all of the options and see what grabs your attention. We always recommend shopping retailers that have generous and hassle-free return policies (if possible), so you can feel the materials and assess the fit before fully committing to any pair of shoes.
I am a commerce editor for Forbes Vetted covering beauty, fashion, travel and home. Prior to joining Forbes, I held positions at BuzzFeed and Dotdash Meredith where I was responsible for curating lifestyle content and testing products for real-world insights. My work has appeared in Womenâs Health, Menâs Health, BuzzFeed, Brit + Co, Everyday Health and more. I hold a Bachelorâs Degree in English/Creative Writing from Marist College and currently reside in Brooklyn, New York.