If the last few years have been good for anything, it's the prolific rise of the flat shoe. Although we have plenty of excuses to enjoy impractical shoes, heels just don't seem to have the same hold on our wardrobes as they once did.
From Mary Janes to ballet flats, Birkenstocks to trainers, it seems like every month a new flat shoe is rising to the top of the trend charts. But there's one timeless style that constantly sits at the top of all our editors' wish lists, and that's loafers.
With their classic charm and minimalist versatility, loafers, from the original Gucci Horsebit Loafer to the more modern, chunky-sole versions from Prada, are still an undeniably appealing addition to our wardrobe. If you choose (wisely) to invest in a luxury pair, you can be sure the cost-per-wear will tick down steadily over the many years you own them. But there are also some excellent, more affordable, iterations on the high street now too. Just be sure to opt for real leather and they'll age gracefully alongside you.
Keep scrolling, and you'll not only find a thorough (trust us, we've scrolled through them all) list of the best loafers out there for 2025, but also some chic loafer outfits to inspire you for the season as well. You're welcome!
Classic Loafer Outfit Ideas:
Okay, I'm adding this look to my outfit inspo pile ASAP.
Loafers with socks softens up the tailored look.
Bare ankles with loafers and jeans is such a chic, French-girl approved way to wear them.
Every fashion girl owns a pair of loafers. They look especially stylish paired with a trench coat in winter.
This is a masterclass in using loafers for a modern tailored look.
Shop The Best Loafers:
Suede everything is key right now.
These loafers are peak quiet luxury. The slim-fit, horsebit-detailed loafers are recognisable worldwide as a cult shoe.
These also come in brown suede so you're guaranteed to find the right style for you.
These could easily be mistaken as designer.
Prada loafers are notoriously difficult to get hold of, so grab them while you can.
I can't get this on-trend pair out of my mind.
A chunky take on the preppy penny loafer.
Picture these with dark-blue jeans and a white shirt.
COS always nails the brief.
A high street hero.
Wear the French-girl way with jeans and a blazer.
The brown suede has a hint of a ’70s vibe.
Penny loafers are so charming. Crafted from good-quality leather, these will last seasons beyond.
Gucci's preppy iteration has been a popular choice since the '50s.
Because animal print is everywhere right now.
So unbelievably chic.
A brilliant affordable option if you're looking to test out the loafer look.
These understated loafers will work with every outfit.
Wear with jeans, skirts, dresses—everything.
Russell and Bromley should be your go-to if you're looking for good-quality loafers that don't boast a high-end price tag.
Talk about a standout.
Loafers and mesh—two trends in one.
Just add baggy blue or ecru jeans.
So chic.
Get prepared for spring.
I love a emblem moment.
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Alexa Chung Just Ditched Sandals in Favour of These Chic Flats on HolidayMy packing list will never be the same.
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From Harry Styles to Lily James, Londoners Are Wearing These Flats With Short-Shorts, Jeans and Everything In BetweenDefinitely the most versatile shoes I own.
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Dakota Johnson Just Wore the Flat-Shoe Alternative to Sandals That Makes Skirts and Trousers Extra PolishedThe perfect early-summer shoe.
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Well-Dressed People Know This Flat-Shoe Trend Instantly Elevates Baggy JeansI didn't think they could look so smart.
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Whole-Foot Flats Are the Chic Shoe Trend Elegant Dressers Are Dedicated to Right NowThey're basically anti-sandals.
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Hold the Black Shoes—7 Fresh Alternatives That Are Just as Chic for Summer 2025Some fresh options.
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J.Law and Dakota Both Know This Shoe Makes Tailored Trousers Look Instantly CoolerI'll always take my styling cues from these two.
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Not a Ballerina, Not a Sandal: If You’re Wearing This Specific Flat-Shoe Trend, I Know You Have Cool StyleIt's somewhere in between.
