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Loafers are a hero piece in any wardrobe. Just ask the Cut’s fashion director, Jess Willis. No, they won’t make you look like a little lad — even if you pair them with your favorite white socks. Instead, the best loafers are timeless and functional. Think about them as mary janes’ and ballet flats’ older and more mature sibling.
The blister period might literally give you battle scars (though not all loafers are created equal), but as a loafer enthusiast myself, I can attest that once you’ve broken them in, they are just as comfortable as your go-to sneakers. Sure, I might be biased, but below I provide a list of loafers that are worth the cost per wear, are Cut editor–approved, and detail a realistic period to break them in.
So, you’re looking for the best loafers?
➼ Our top picks
➼ More tried-and-true items
➼ Our experts
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Our top picks:
The New Classics
Hereu’s pricing might be a turn-off for some, but I’m here to tell you they are worth every penny. They’re crafted in Spain and the quality is impeccable. And luckily, more often than not, sites like Farfetch tend to have various styles marked down. I wear mine with socks, and they are very comfortable. (The only time I needed backup, Band-Aids, was the first time I took them out for a stroll.)
The Cut Favorite
When I asked my colleagues if they had a favorite pair of loafers, a handful of them immediately responded that they swear by G.H Bass’ Weejuns. They are no frizz, go with literally everything, are under $200, and your feet won’t hate you if you decide to walk all over the city in them.
The Elevated Pair
Favored by Bella Hadid, Nomasei creates elevated versions of our beloved loafers. With a one-inch heel that will literally elevate you every so slightly without discomfort, these are my favorites to pair with dresses and sport shorts to create a nice contrast. Also, every time I wear them, I get so many compliments.
A Pair for Petites
Senior culture editor Brooke Marine recommends the Camper Milah loafers. She loves how they give her petite frame some height while still being comfortable (and affordable!).
Another Classic Option
I love my Sebago loafers. I have a cow-print pair that is in my most-used shoe rotation. I’ve worn them with and without socks, and while they have never given me blisters to the point of bleeding, sometimes they do give me tiny blisters on my pinkie toes.
Another Designer Pair
Editorial assistant Brooke LaMantia loves her Gucci loafers. Her trick? Buy them secondhand, and if they are from the men’s section, even better. They mold to your feet quicker and feel like a second skin.
The Ones You Wear If You’re Not a Fan of Loafers
Shopping editor Hanna Flanagan can always count on these from Tony Bianco. They are a classic black with an edgier but subtle silhouette, perfect to throw on with your spring attire.
An Under $200 Pair
My beloved Cole Haan loafers were a thrift find from years ago, so they are no longer available. However, recently I tested out this pair and they are just as good. I had to break them in a bit more compared to an already used pair, but not too much blood was shed.
A Solid Black Option
We’ve shared how we love Vagabond Shoemakers for its black boots. The same can be said for its black loafers. Whether you opt for a tassel pair like this one or one of the chunkier iterations, it’s a good quality shoe under $200. Our photo editor Maridelis Morales Rosado wears them all the time while she’s running around shoots and the office. We highly suggest you try them on before purchasing or purchase multiple sizes, since as with any shoe, the wrong sizing will make using these a less than favorable experience.
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More tried-and-true options:
A Solid Under-$100 Option
If you really liked the Nomasei option but you’re currently on a budget, consider this Charles & Keith pair. I own multiple loafers from the brand and can say that the quality is great considering its pricing. People always think they look way more expensive than they actually are.
The Suede Ones
Our deputy style editor, Joanna Nikas, swears by her suede loafers. However, her pair from Aimé Leon Dore is no longer in stock. If you want to try out a pair for yourself, though, Steve Madden has this under-$100 option that is just as good.
The Little Lad Ones
Sometimes you do need a pair that resembles those that a little lad would wear. And that’s okay. The square toe and gold detailing will add a touch to your outfits. Plus, a former colleague wore her pair during fashion week, so you know it passed the comfort test.
A Woven Option
Loeffler Randall knows how to do a leather shoe. Of its boots, heels, and ballet flats, its loafers might be my favorite. Especially this woven pair that features a padded leather footbed for added comfort. I love how my pair hugs my feet just right after the first use.
A loafer-boat-shoe hybrid
Is it a loafer? Is it a boat shoe? Is it both? Yes, and we are obsessed. If you consider these are technically two shoes in one, they are worth their hefty price tag.
