{"id":1780784,"date":"2026-02-06T22:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-02-06T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1780784"},"modified":"2026-02-06T22:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-02-06T19:00:00","slug":"i-was-a-loafer-skeptic-but-these-12-classic-ultra-comfortable-styles-won-me-over","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1780784","title":{"rendered":"I Was a Loafer Skeptic, but These 12 Classic, Ultra-Comfortable Styles Won Me Over"},"content":{"rendered":"

[analyse_image type=”featured” src=”https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/thmb\/s61EyKw9J-0gE69BAXidWYa0OUI=\/1500×0\/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()\/byr-loafers-for-women-tout-92a62801f85247f4939e1aa5c868a38d.jpg”]<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.\n<\/p>\n

I Was a Loafer Skeptic, but These 12 Classic, Ultra-Comfortable Styles Won Me Over<\/h1>\n

I finally get the hype.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
By<\/span><\/p>\n
Morgan Sullivan<\/p>\n
\n
\n
\n
\"Morgan\"Morgan<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nMorgan Sullivan\n<\/div>\n
\nMorgan Sullivan is a contributing writer for Byrdie with five years of experience in fashion, beauty, and wellness editorial, combining sharp trend analysis with hands-on product testing and audience strategy. From buzzy beauty tech to mid-tier luxury fashion, she digs into the details to uncover what\u2019s truly worth the hype.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\nByrdie’s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Published on February 06, 2026 05:00PM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Leave a Comment<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

In This Article<\/h2>\n
\n
View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n

In This Article<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
  • \n
    Top Picks<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Reviews<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    What to Look For<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    How We Tested<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Meet Our Experts<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n
  • \n
    Why Trust Byrdie<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    \"Flattered\"Flattered<\/div>\n<\/div>
    <\/p>\n

    Byrdie<\/p>\n

    <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n

    TL;DR<\/p>\n

    \n

    If you’re going to add one loafer to your collection, we recommend J.Crew’s Winona Penny Loafer. We were able to wear this loafer right out of the box without blisters, and the classic design goes with everything. If you prefer a loafer with a bit more edge, check out Dolce Vita Tiggy Loafers. They are a platform loafer that doesn’t feel too bulky, and they come in fun colors like cow print, in addition to black and brown.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Believe me\u2014it was going to take a lot to pry the white sneaker<\/u> off my feet. I once believed it was the ultimate pair-all shoe, the only one capable of going with everything, from baggy jeans to sleek slips<\/u>.\u00a0That was until the loafer made its way into my life. Now I understand how a structured shoe\u2014one that is both sleek and timeless\u2014can feel sharp in style but comfortable in wear. Whether trekking to the train for a work commute or heading straight to cocktail hour, these celebrity-endorsed shoes truly can do it all.\n<\/p>\n

    After testing several pairs of loafers, <\/em>I\u2019m hooked, just like so many of our editors.\u00a0If you\u2019re wondering which pairs are truly worth making room for in your own closet, read on to shop the best loafers for women that we tested in our daily lives and fell in love with\u2014with no blisters in sight.\n<\/p>\n

    \n

    Top Picks<\/h2>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n
    Best Overall:<\/div>\n

    J.Crew Penny Loafer at Jcrew.com<\/span>$198<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Chunky:<\/div>\n
    SALE<\/div>\n

    Dolce Vita Tiggy Loafers at Amazon<\/span>$165<\/s>$99<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best for Work:<\/div>\n

    Favorite Daughter Loafer at Nordstrom<\/span>$265<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Most Comfortable:<\/div>\n

    Flattered Bon Bon Leather Black Loafers at Revolve<\/span>$275<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Penny Loafer:<\/div>\n

    Madewell The Grayson Penny Loafer at Amazon<\/span>$178<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Suede:<\/div>\n

    Mango Penny Loafers at Mango.com<\/span>$140<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Backless:<\/div>\n

    Quince Horsebit Loafer at Quince<\/span>$70<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Designer:<\/div>\n

    Larroud\u00e9 Loafer at Larroude.com<\/span>$375<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best for Wide Feet:<\/div>\n

    Sezane Loafers at Sezane.com<\/span>$230<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    Best Animal Print:<\/div>\n
    SALE<\/div>\n

    Ann Taylor Suede Loafer at Anntaylor.com<\/span>$158<\/s>$58<\/span><\/div>\n

    Jump to Review<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Overall
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    J.Crew Penny Loafer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"J.Crew\"J.Crew<\/div>
    Credit: J.Crew<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $198 at Jcrew.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Colors: <\/strong>3\n<\/p>\n

    This was the first pair that I tried, and they were like the unicorn of pennies. That\u2019s because\u2014to put it quite simply\u2014I couldn\u2019t find anything<\/em> wrong with them. It\u2019s a pair that keeps a flatteringly low profile, devoid of any fussy accents. Right out of the box, this pair had a rich leather scent. But what really converted me, and made me finally forgo my ballets for work commutes, was that I could walk four miles to and from my office without a single blister in sight. But compliments from strangers were plenty.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Chunky
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Dolce Vita Tiggy Loafers<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Amazon\"Amazon<\/div>
    Credit: Amazon<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    <\/p>\n
    $165<\/span><\/div>\n

    $99 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$150 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span>$150 at Zappos<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials:<\/strong> Leather upper, synthetic outsole | Size Range: <\/strong>5-15 | Colors: <\/strong>4\n<\/p>\n

    A chunky style is like the cooler older sister of the loafer world. It gives a bit of edge, without straying too far from its origins. But for those who think they\u2019re too punk rock for their wardrobe, let us introduce you to an easygoing version that proves a platform can be worn every day. We tested these while going for quick meetups and coffee runs and quickly realized they\u2019re exceptional for long walks, too. That\u2019s because there\u2019s a substantial amount of weight on them\u2014great for wintery outings\u2014all without feeling too dense or bulky.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Ali Webb<\/strong>, associate style editor: <\/strong>\u201cThe design is so comfortable. They didn’t require any break-in time, and modern details like a chunky sole and a crinkled patent finish (or statement hues, if you choose) ensure that this is not<\/em> your grandparents’ preppy shoe.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest for Work
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Favorite Daughter Loafer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Nordstrom\"Nordstrom<\/div>
    Credit: Nordstrom<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $265 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span>$250 at Shopfavoritedaughter.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Leather upper, synthetic lining, rubber sole | Size Range: <\/strong>5-11 | Colors:<\/strong> 4\n<\/p>\n

    A classically cool loafer, crafted by Favorite Daughter (yes\u2014the sisters who also created the Byrdie-obsessed show Nobody Wants This<\/em>), is the ideal mix of relaxed and collegiate. Associate Editor Emily Cieslak tested these and said they were easy to break in, but the real sell is in the color: a gorgeous burgundy croc, for when you want something that feels more luxe than black or brown. Sport these with cashmere sweaters and trousers or even a pair of slouchy jeans, if you want more of a juxtaposed look.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Emily Cieslak, associate editor: <\/strong>\u201cI think these loafers are a great intro to the style for anyone hesitant to try. Think of them like your favorite ballet flats, but with a bit more edge.\u201d\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nMost Comfortable
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Flattered Bon Bon Leather Black Loafers<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Flattered\"Flattered<\/div>
    Credit: Flattered<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $275 at Revolve<\/span><\/span>$265 at Flattered.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Cow Leather | Size Range: <\/strong>5-12 | Colors: <\/strong>5\n<\/p>\n

    If you\u2019re looking for a loafer with soft, supple leather, these are it<\/em>. When we tried this pair, equipped with ruching around the almond toe, we immediately felt the impact of trading in a stiff, synthetic shoe for one made of high-quality material. Not only is the look very Scandi\u2014thanks to its buttery, worn-in leather and soft sheen\u2014but our tester said she couldn’t believe a loafer could be so comfortable (there was no poking or rubbing at the ankles).Plus, the tiny heel (about 10 millimeters) gives this minimalist pair an elevated feel\u2014literally.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Maddie Barber<\/strong>, writer: <\/strong>\u201c[These are] STUNNING\u2014such incredible quality, made with supple, soft leather.\u201d\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Penny Loafer
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Madewell The Grayson Penny Loafer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Madewell\"Madewell<\/div>
    Credit: Madewell<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $178 at Amazon<\/span><\/span>$178 at Nordstrom<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n
    $168<\/span><\/div>\n

    $150 at Madewell.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Colors: <\/strong>Black\n<\/p>\n

    A true no-brainer investment, these Madewell penny loafers take our top spot thanks to their smooth, sleek leather construction and sophisticated silhouette. They read high-end at first glance but deliver where it actually matters: comfort. Rarely does a brand-new shoe feel broken in on day one, yet Byrdie’s Editorial Director Holly Rhue was pleasantly surprised to find these blissfully ache- and blister-free straight out of the box. And aside from those sturdy leather uppers, these feature a faux penny\u2014a refined yet nostalgic touch.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

    Holly Rhue, editorial director:<\/strong> \u201cIn terms of chunk factor, these are the Goldilocks of loafers. They’re not so flat that I can feel every grain of gravel under the sole, nor are they so chunky that I feel like I’m in lug soles.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Suede
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Mango Penny Loafers<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Mango\"Mango<\/div>
    Credit: Mango<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    <\/p>\n
    $140<\/span><\/div>\n

    $120 at Mango.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Bovine leather | Size Range: <\/strong>5-10 | Colors: <\/strong>1\n<\/p>\n

    Without wavering too much into boat-shoe territory, these suede pennies from Mango keep things unfussy and casual, while still reading as a loafer. They bring just the right amount of texture and warmth to an outfit, especially in the winter when I just want something that feels easy on cold mornings but appears refined. While I\u2019m glad to have this shoe\u2019s full-grain counterpart in my closet, I adored how effortlessly these broke in because of the flexible vamps.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Backless
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Quince Horsebit Loafer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Quince\"Quince<\/div>
    Credit: Quince<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $70 at Quince<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Italian calf leather upper| Size Range:<\/strong> 5-11 | Colors: <\/strong>4\n<\/p>\n

    In case you haven’t heard, the backless loafer is back, and this is one 2016 trend we’re happy to revive without cringing. Truly a business-in-the-front, easy-going-in-the-back shoe, these loafers are structured like an open-backed mule, but appear to be a classic flat at the toe. They immediately reminded me of the iconic Gucci Princetown loafers when I unboxed them, but with an enticing under-$100 price tag. I loved the gorgeous mocha color, which is rich enough to sub in for when your classic black pair feels a bit drab.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Designer
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Larroud\u00e9 Loafer <\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Larroud\u00e9\"Larroud\u00e9<\/div>
    Credit: Larroud\u00e9<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $375 at Larroude.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials:<\/strong> Luster calf leather | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-11 | Colors:<\/strong> 1\n<\/p>\n

    Sometimes, a shoe costs a pretty penny\u2014pun fully<\/em> intended\u2014and you quickly realize it\u2019s not functional whatsoever. What I love about Larroud\u00e9, though, is that they’re quite reliable and even more stylish. These are the rare shoes that look like they should hurt but don\u2019t. The low, flat sole is rubberized for comfort and grip, the classic loafer silhouette keeps them wearable, and a thinly laid gold ornament adds just the right amount of polish to an everyday flat.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest for Wide Feet
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Sezane Loafers<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Sezane\"Sezane<\/div>
    Credit: Sezane<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $230 at Sezane.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Leather | Size Range: <\/strong>4-11 | Colors:<\/strong> 2\n<\/p>\n

    For us wider-footed girlies, S\u00e9zane has made a platformed leather with a wider fit that gives height without being aggressively chunky. I loved pairing these with baggy proportions, since they reinforce the relaxed, oversized feel. The rubber outsole keeps these durable (I wore them on a very rainy day, and honestly didn\u2019t miss my rain boots at all\u2014the same can\u2019t be said for my Oxfords or ballet flats). They feel genuinely tactile underfoot, yet still read feminine to onlookers as I hustled through the streets of Manhattan.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Animal Print
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Ann Taylor Suede Loafer<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Ann\"Ann<\/div>
    Credit: Ann Taylor<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    <\/p>\n
    $158<\/span><\/div>\n

    $58 at Anntaylor.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials: <\/strong>Suede | Size Range: <\/strong>5-11 | Colors: <\/strong>1\n<\/p>\n

    For those of us who believe leopard is neutral, this playful pair from Ann Taylor is a wonderful way to incorporate animal print into your footwear. Made from 100% suede, this classic loafer is on the cheaper side for shoes made from the same materials. We love that<\/em>, of course\u2014but we also love the detailing at the front of this shoe that adds a textural flair.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Brown
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    M.Gemi The Brenda<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"M.Gemi\"M.Gemi<\/div>
    Credit: M.Gemi<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $298 at Mgemi.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials:<\/strong> Italian kid suede upper with nappa leather details, Italian leather lining | Size Range:<\/strong> 5-12 | Colors: <\/strong>5\n<\/p>\n

    M.Gemi knows how to make an investment piece, like these biscuit-colored beauties, which are also available in a chocolate-y brown and\u2014the colorway I\u2019ve been eyeing\u2014a gorgeous and funky snakeskin. The standout feature of these otherwise low-profile loafers is the soft leather twisted, tubular bands that adorn the toebox. They\u2019re also made with a Sacchetto suede (something I, admittedly, had to Google, which is an Italian, hand-stitched technique where the lining and insole are sewn together like a “little bag”). And that kind of craftsmanship shines through, as they feel and look high-end, though I would note that they probably do work best for narrower feet, as the quarters were on the tighter end.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \n


    \nBest Casual
    \n<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Cos Leather Loafers<\/span><\/h3>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    \n
    \"Cos\"Cos<\/div>
    Credit: Cos\ufeff<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<\/div>\n
    \n
    $159 at Cos.com<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Materials:<\/strong> Leather | Size Range: <\/strong>6-12 | Colors: <\/strong>1\n<\/p>\n

    For a shoe that looks (and feels!) more like a slipper, that even the most unconvinced loafer skeptic could find themselves in, enter the Cos leather loafer. As a shoe that could be mistaken for something by The Row, these pared-down, minimalist loafers beg the question: Why wear anything else when they are as refined as an Oxford shoe but as comfortable as indoor footwear? Our tester asked herself the same question, noting how comfortable they were and how the materials felt, likely due to the 100% leather, which made for a breathable, natural interior and a flexible sole.\n<\/p>\n

    \n
    \"Site<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    Shannon Stubbs<\/strong>, writer:<\/strong> \u201cI’m not really a fan of loafers, so it was hard to find a pair that fit my style. The soft leather gives them a casual, understated vibe that I think standard loafers don’t have.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

    \n

    What to Look for in Loafers for Women <\/span><\/h2>\n
      \n
    • Materials:<\/strong> When it comes to loafers, real leather remains the gold standard: it softens over time, molds to your foot, and can last for years with proper care (AKA resoling and conditioning). Faux or \u201cvegan\u201d leather tends to be more affordable but can stay rigid and often cracks or peels rather than aging gracefully. Liz Teich<\/u>, a New York-based personal stylist and creator of The New York Stylist, tells Byrdie that most vegan leathers are made from plastic, meaning they won\u2019t biodegrade and rarely hold up long-term. So if you\u2019re looking for a more sustainable option: Go real.\u00a0<\/li>\n
    • Texture:<\/strong> Some textures our experts are loving, and recommend for your closet:\n
        \n
      • Smooth leatheris both timeless and long-lasting, adds Teich. It\u2019s easiest to maintain, and it\u2019s the most versatile.\u00a0<\/li>\n
      • Pebbled leather feels softer right out of the box and is more forgiving of scuffs.<\/li>\n
      • Suede (think camel or chocolate) adds warmth and richness, but save it for your second or third pair\u2014and always spray with protectant, warns Teich.<\/li>\n
      • Pony hair brings texture without shouting, and it\u2019s perfect for neutral dressers craving something a tad bit more memorable.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n
      • Fit:<\/strong>Lauren Sharkey,<\/u> a Chicago-based personal stylist, notes that most blister complaints come from too much room, especially at the heel. If you can slip your heel out without using your hands, expect rubbing. Experts recommend sticking close to your true size and erring slightly on the snug. That\u2019s because leather stretches with wear and warmth. \u201cI\u2019d recommend sizing to the foot, not the sock\u2014instead opt for a thin (ideally cashmere) sock that adds the most minimal padding to your foot,\u201d says Sharkey. \u201cI prefer this aesthetically as well,\u201d<\/li>\n
      • Color: <\/strong>If you\u2019re just starting to build your loafer collection, Sharkey recommends a low-profile, no-hardware black loafer. \u201cFrom there, I\u2019d prioritize a rich caramel or chocolate suede pair that delivers depth, texture, and warmth to a look. And I\u2019d round it out with a high gloss black patent loafer for a statement finish,\u201d says Sharkey. \u201cIf you tend to wear mostly neutrals, like myself and my clients, a deep bordeaux or burgundy is a lovely addition \u2014 again, not your first pair but an additive pair. They punctuate a tonal look, from rich browns to cool heather grays or blacks. They also soften a denim-on-denim look.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        How We Tested Loafers for Women <\/span><\/h2>\n
        \n
        \n
        \"Woman\"Woman<\/div>\n<\/div>
        <\/p>\n

        Byrdie<\/p>\n

        <\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

        Byrdie editors and writers tested multiple pairs of loafers for a month. Each of us looked for the things you actually<\/em> care about when shopping for the best pair of shoes: comfort, durability (we did a lot of walking, long commutes, and serious breaking in), quality of materials, and how long they took to soften up. And, transparently, if a pair tore up our ankles, it didn\u2019t make the list.\u00a0\n<\/p>\n

        \n
        FAQ<\/div>\n
          \n
        • \n
          How do you style loafers?<\/span><\/div>\n
          \n
          \n
          \n

          Experts agree: A loafer is so versatile, it really can go with just about anything<\/em> in your closet. \u201cI love styling them with straight-leg jeans or cropped trousers to show a bit of skin\u2014they shine when there\u2019s a visible break between shoe and hem,\u201d says personal stylist Joy Asibey-Gabriel<\/u>. She also recommends no-show liner socks for comfort and loves styling loafers with sheer socks, maxi skirts, sheer tights with minis, or tailored shorts.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n
          How do you break in loafers?<\/span><\/div>\n
          \n
          \n
          \n

          As Asibey-Gabriel says, \u201cIn an ideal world, every pair of shoes would feel as comfortable after five hours of wear as they do in the fitting room\u2014but that\u2019s not always the case.\u201d If your loafers need a little breaking in, start by wearing them around the house for short stints with thick socks to gently stretch them. And if they\u2019re still stiff, a visit to a good cobbler can help. Having them professionally stretched can make all the difference. That said, a quality loafer \u201cshouldn\u2019t leave you with blisters or require an extensive break-in period,\u201d says Asibey-Gabriel.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n

          Meet Our Experts <\/span><\/h2>\n

          For this article, we interviewed several stylists for advice on how to shop for and style loafers.\n<\/p>\n

            \n
          • Joy Asibey-Gabriel is a personal stylist and feminine adornment coach.<\/li>\n
          • Lauren Sharkey is a Chicago-based personal stylist.<\/li>\n
          • Liz Teich is a New York-based personal stylist and creator of The New York Stylist.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            Why Trust Byrdie <\/span><\/h2>\n

            Byrdie contributor Morgan Sullivan<\/u> has over half a decade of experience in the beauty and fashion industry, writing for leading magazines and websites. She\u2019s tested and reviewed countless types of shoes, so that your feet may feel less pain than hers, and your closet is stocked with the most stylish and comfortable pairs.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

            \n
            \n
            Read more:<\/div>\n
              \n
            • What to Buy<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Shopping<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n
              \n
              \n
              \n
              \n
              \nComments\n<\/div>\n
              \nConversations are opinions of our readers and are subject to our Community Guidelines.\n<\/div>\n