Fall wardrobe essentials: this season’s best loafers
Footwear trends come and go, but loafers will always be a staple in my fall wardrobe. They’re comfortable, casual-chic, and perfect for those days when it’s too cool for sandals but too warm for ankle boots.
Above: shirt | earrings | blazer | bracelet | jeans | shoes | bag
If you’re looking to elevate your casual outfits, or just want to take a break from your sneakers, here are a few styles to consider.
While it’s hard to go wrong with a sleek, minimalist loafer, this fall it’s all about the details. Lug soles have been trending since Spring, and are still showing up in new fall styles. While I realize this isn’t a look for everyone, a chunkier shoe can help balance broad shoulders or a more oversized top. This one is offered in three colors. I think this “Alpine Green” is great for some palettes for fall, and looks lighter than all black.
These are a bit less chunky, but still add some nice visual volume. I LOVE the color of this pair, and the patent leather finish. Also available in black and ivory leather here.
“Details” doesn’t have to mean embellishment. This simple style has a more casual look due to the lug sole and lack of hardware, but the color and patent leather finish add visual interest.
And a classic penny loafer rises above generic in an unexpected dark green croc-embossed leather.
These are sleek and elegant enough to dress up for a party or an evening out. Also available in black.
And I love the funky oversized resin link detail on this one. I purchased these in ivory during the Anniversary Sale, and they are quite comfortable, run TTS.
And here’s a classic tassel loafer style in a pretty lavender suede! These are specifically designed to accommodate bunions and wide feet in comfort. Save 15% with code FEMME15.
More fall loafers…
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Loafers – so fond of them but impossible to wear because of bunions. Susan, you have mentioned Sole Bliss in connection with sneakers. They have a loafer style also, as does Calla Shoes, another British brand making shoes in Portugal for those with bunions. I bought a ballet flat style from Cala which is actually comfortable as well as cute so will be trying a loafer from one of them soon as well as heels. Thanks!
Will you tell me what size shoe you wear? My size nine looks so big in the cute shoes like you wear. Any advice?
Hi Suzy, I wear a 7.5 usually. I try to keep the visual volume within an outfit balanced (including shoes). That usually keeps any one area from looking disproportionately large.
I’m another narrow heel and forefoot isn’t medium but not wide. I’ve been eying the solebliss loafer and the sneakers you have in bronze. They have a new style called Spirit, has anyone tried it? It’s considered Wide, not Extra Wide.
I just adore all your choices here, Susan. Alas, a lot of us cannot wear loafers because our narrow heels will slip without the ability to lace or buckle a shoe. Can you consider doing a post on chic and current “loafer alternatives”? Thanks!
Will do!
Copy that! I have narrow feet and have to be able to tighten them too.
FYI – The outfit that I remembered seeing last week was the French Terry Hooded Lounge Sweatshirt and Wide-Leg Lounge Culotte Pant by EZ Nina Leonard on HSN. ( I thought all the colors are nice but really like the bourbon color.)
My love of loafers started with the original penny loafers I wore with the shiny penny. I still will reach for my black loafers when I have a stressful day ahead. No penny but some have bling. I prefer the plain ones. Great shoe for Fall before boots and even through the winter for those of us who have little boot weather. Not a fan of a heavy shoe so I look for sturdy but light in weight,
Hi Susan—I’m a fellow Californian who recently moved from the San Diego area to I’ve in the Central Coast. I really enjoy your writing.
Now here’s a quick question: in a number of posts you’ve mentioned the Faster Way to Fat Loss program. Partly because of your endorsement (seconded by numerous others) I enrolled in the program and am just completing my 6th week. Now it’s time to transition to their VIP group.
Do you stay permanently enrolled with the Faster Way program or do you leave and return? Do you see it as a permanent life style?
I’d really appreciate your input.
Thanks.
Hi Deborah, thanks! Yes, I consider it a lifestyle and have stayed enrolled to have access to the workouts and other tools and support. I don’t always track my macros daily but generally follow the carb cycling pattern and do the workouts 5x per week.
You are so right. Loafers are thé trend of fall. Pity they don’t really suit my feet. But there is enough new footwear in my closet to be content with haha.
Greetje
Loafers, just love them. Have been wearing them for over 50 years and just love that they never really go out of fashion. I have some which go back over 30 years and still look current. Long live the loafer.
SusanD
Just editing my closet as per an earlier summer post, Susan…well due! …and finding fall shoes stored in see through boxes. Testing for comfort , as feet may have changed over this prolonged non-social time.
Enjoying seeing some favourite loafers and ankle boots again.
Timely , as I am preparing my travel wardrobe for the southwest of England by car.
I am following some excellent illustrated suggestions from you regarding capsule wardrobe for packing.
Taking my time with this, writing notes, so not to feel stressed on packing day prior to the flight.
Editing the closet and trip planning go together well.
As I edit my drawers , my sweaters are being assessed for future enjoyment or donation.
A bigger bust at 71 sure does change the fit, and not in a good way ! Discovering Chico’s and Nordstrom online
(and finding delivery easy) , and also visiting local shops for new additions, as I fill in the gaps left from editing.
I am relying so much more on colours that suit me … spring and some autumn are my best colours, even though my hair has more grey now.
Your site is one of the best, Susan . Very enjoyable and informative.
Thanks so much, Cath! I’m so glad you find the blog helpful. I loved reading about your process for both closet clearing and travel wardrobe planning. Have a wonderful trip!