If there's one designer investment I think is worth it, it's a pair of loafers. They're comfortable, versatile, and, best of all, timeless. I find myself in awe over the designer "revenge heels" I see on my Instagram feed, but as someone who prioritizes comfort, I just know that investing in a pair of loafers makes more sense for everyday wear.
After lots of overthinking and seeking advice from my shopping-fluent co-editors, I'm ready to make the investment, and I've come to share the options I've narrowed in on. While there aren't thousands of options like there are for non-designer loafers, there's still a variety to pick from. I searched through the market and found the 15 pairs that stand out most to me and seem to be worth the hefty price tag. Below, see the best designer loafers available. If you're unsure about loafers as versatile shoes, you'll be convinced once you take a look at the imagery I've sprinkled in from the fashion set.
Out of all the loafers in this mix, this is my top contender. Gucci loafers will never go out of style.
Tory Burch
Classic Lug Loafers
Tory Burch reintroduced its Classic Lug Loafers in metallic and leopard for fall. How fun!
Khaite
Alessio Suede Loafers
Suede for fall isn't groundbreaking, but these loafers are still worth it.
(Image credit: @champagnemani)
Gucci
Jordaan Bit Loafers
If the platform sole isn't for you, go for the classic Jordaan Loafers from Gucci. Black is great, but olive green is looking to be the It color of the season.
Toteme
The Piped Patent-Leather Loafers
These offer the comfort and ease of ballet flats but the professional look of loafers. Thank you, Toteme!
Bottega Veneta
Astaire Loafers
Chain loafers can easily look tacky, but Bottega Veneta has mastered how to perfectly incorporate gold hardware into its bags and shoes.
(Image credit: @allypayer)
Prada
Brushed Leather Loafers
If you're trying to emulate cool girls, these are the loafers to have. Miuccia Prada knows best.
Maison Margiela
Tabi Split-Toe Glossed-Leather Loafers
Start off your Tabi collection with these.
Khaite
Alessio Crinkled-Leather Loafers
If you're brave enough, white loafers look incredibly chic. (It might be risky if you live in a city like NYC.)
(Image credit: @allypayer)
Saint Laurent
Le Loafer Leather Loafers
If you want a light color but don't want to buy a pristine white pair, this cream pair from Saint Laurent is ideal.
Le Monde Beryl
Patent-Leather Loafers
Have you seen a more gorgeous color? If you buy these, you should wear them on a daily basis this fall.
Proenza Schouler
Bronco Suede Loafers
If you want to try out loafers but don't want to give up on a higher heel, I've found the designer loafers for you.
(Image credit: @trustmebuythis)
Aeyde
Tom Snake-Effect Leather Loafers
With a simple outfit, these snake-effect loafers would act as a great pop of print. Animal print comes back around season after season, so I know these will get a ton of wear.
Proenza Schouler
Leather Loafers
The contrast stitching and platform make these the ultimate cool-girl loafers.
After interning at Who What Wear in 2019, Yusra Siddiqui found her way to the team after graduating with a fashion media degree. She's also spent time writing and working for publications such as Fashionista, Coveteur, Nylon, and Allure. When she's on the job, she's perusing runway shows, analyzing the latest social media trends, and diving deep into all things Gen Z-related.