9 Just-Dropped Loafers I Absolutely Can’t Stop Staring At

(Image credit: @kendalljenner)

Despite going through different trendy iterations over the years, loafers will always be a classic flat-shoe style. They're also a fan-favorite, thanks to their minimalist versatility and ability to add a polished touch to any outfit, regardless of the occasion. In the past they may have been considered more frequently with outfits involving tailored suiting or jeans, but the "wrong-shoe theory" has proven they are just as suitable for more unexpected looks such as dresses and skirts.

I've curated a shortlist of 9 loafers that are considered the best of the best on the market. Standout favorites include Saint Laurent penny loafers and soft leather versions from The Row, but I've also included more affordable versions that are heavily in demand, including the G.H. Bass Weejuns that are practically always sold out. Scroll down to find the styles that you’ll find in the closets of the fashion set.

1. G.H Bass Weejuns Loafers

It doesn't get more timeless than a pair of G.H. Bass Weejuns loafers. At $175, the heritage shoes also have a great price point which means they are nearly always sold out. I'd suggest ordering them early in the season before sizes become more limited.

2. The Row Soft Loafers

If you've been looking for a classic loafer with updated lines, look to this style from The Row. As the name states, these are crafted from crinkled, soft leather with details such as exposed stitching sleek penny-inspired straps. The versatile style works with everything for tailoring to jeans.

3. Toteme Oval Loafers

Equal parts elevated, polished, timeless, and modern, these Toteme loafers offer a cool take on new minimalism. They have an oval shape and are stamped with a subtle brand logo in gold lettering.

4. Mango Penny Loafers

As chunky, lug sole loafers cool off, we're seeing a return to more classic shapes like the penny loafer. Mango has an excellent version for $140 in a range of shades including black, burgundy, and a two-tone style.

5. Gucci Cutout Loafers

Gucci's horsebit loafers will forever be iconic, but there is another style worth noting right now. The fashion house's cutout leather loafers are based on an archival styles from the '70s and are finished with a penny strap with cutouts in the shape of its interlocking GG monogram.

6. Zara Buckled Soft Loafers

More and more, we're seeing the rise of soft leather loafers. The styles take on a more relaxed, lived-in shape that look like they have always been in your closet. Zara is the latest brand to add a pair to their collection.

7. Saint Laurent Le Loafer

Saint Laurent debuted its Le Loafer several years ago, but it is such a popular shoe that it is returning each season in new colorways and finishes. A staple in the closets of the fashion set, this is a style that is worth the investment.

8. Aeyde Oscar Loafers

Suddenly, Aeyde shoes have made their way into every fashion person's wardrobe. The brand is known for producing their pieces in family-run factories in Italy at prices under $400. The Oscar loafers are the latest to know.

9. Tod's Gommino Loafers

If you're after classic pieces with true staying power, turn to the Tod's Gommino loafers. The style stands out with its 133 rubber pebbles on the sole that are inspired by vintages driving shoes to provide a great grip.

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.