Even for someone who loves to experiment with her shoes, some iconic styles will forever have a spot on my shoe rack. One such example: loafers—specifically brown loafers. Slightly softer but just as versatile as their sleek black loafer counterpart, brown loafers are polished workhorses that serve you well year-round. If you don't already have your dream pair as part of your rotation, we've done some research to curate the best of the best for every budget.
Our editors have spent hours trying on loafers, and most of us have spent years of our lives wearing them everywhere, from the office to weekend errands. And whilst I'm quick to try a new shoe trend (looking at you clogs and sneakerinas), loafers have a refreshing longevity to them. In fact, they've been around for thousands of years, though the term loafer was coined in the 1930s. Since then, they've become a chic and reliable option regardless of style or gender—and I can't think of a single year when loafers were notably "dated." They're polished enough for nicer occasions but casual enough for your daily looks. Simply put: brown loafers are exceptionally easy to wear.
If you're ready to invest in a great pair, we've pulled editor favourites, iconic styles and budget-friendly options from the high street. Scroll on for the best brown loafers for women you'll wear for many years.
The Best Brown Loafers for Women:
- Best High-Street Loafers: Massimo Dutti Embossed Leather Loafers
- Best Faux Leather Brown Loafers: H&M Loafers in Brown
- Best Brown Platform Loafer: Reformation Agathea Chunky Loafer
- Best Suede Moccasin Loafer: Aeyde Jasper Moccasin Loafers
- Best Investment Loafer: Gucci Jordaan Loafer
- Best Splurge Loafer: The Row Tasseled Leather Loafer
Shop the Best Brown Loafers Under £150:
Style Notes: Loafers in a dark suede always look great with a shiny bit of hardware contrasted against the material. This pair is no exception.
Sizes: UK 2–9
Material: Faux leather (Polyester 94%, Elastane 6%)
Style Notes: It's hard to beat this pair of rounded-toe loafers that are genuine leather and £50.
Sizes: UK 2–9
Material: Cow leather
Style Notes: The cinched leather makes this high-street pair look designer.
Sizes: UK 2–9
Material: Cow leather
Style Notes: Croc effect patterns have only rising in popularity. It's one animal-inspired print that will always remain timeless.
Sizes: EU 36–42
Material: Leather
Shop the Best Brown Loafers Under £300:
Style Notes: The overstated square toe is so chic. This suede pair will make any outfit feel sophisticated.
Sizes: EU 36 to 42
Material: Cow leather
Style Notes: If you love platform soles, these loafers will last you for many seasons to come. They're classic, but the lug sole gives them an edge.
Sizes: UK 2.5–9
Material: Bovine leather
Style Notes: If you like a classic loafer look, complete with fringe, contrast stitching and gold hardware, this pair was made for you.
Sizes: UK 3–9
Material: Distressed leather
Shop the Best Brown Loafers Under £700:
Style Notes: The light brown is a great hue for spring and summer wear. These also come in five other colours, including charcoal, dark brown, black and a few shearling lined options.
Sizes: EU 36–42
Material: Cow suede leather
Style Notes: Bordering between burgundy and brown, these loafers add shine to all your outfits. They're also available in nine other colours, like cream suede and black.
Sizes: UK 2–10
Material: Crinkled soft calf leather
Style Notes: The contrast stitches on the side and the emphasised round toe make these loafers a cool choice if you, like me, are interested in shoes that intrigue.
Sizes: EU 35–41
Material: Calf leather
Style Notes: The elastic backs of these loafers give them a snug fit so you can wear them for hours comfortably. They're an instant shoe rack staple.
Sizes: EU 35–41
Material: Suede calfskin
Shop the Best Brown Loafers Under £100:
Style Notes: It doesn't get more iconic than Gucci's Jordaan loafers, complete with horsebit hardware. This is one of our top editor-approved investments when it comes to footwear. They're timeless, comfortable and a forever staple.
Sizes: 34–42 IT
Material: Leather
Style Notes: It takes a lot of work to make a classic shoe silhouette feel fresh, but Loewe has done it. The smooth, flattened shape, toggle and scrunched backs are too good.
Sizes: EU 35–41
Material: Shiny smooth calfskin
Style Notes: I love the cool-toned brown shade of this pair, as well as the subtle logo hardware off to the side and hand-stitched toe. They also come in a lighter cognac.
Sizes: UK 1–9
Material: Calfskin leather
Shop the Best Brown Loafers Over £1000:
Style Notes: Another fun pair for platform enthusiasts. It doesn't get better than Prada's. The modern platform nicely contrasts against the vintage-inspired leather.
Sizes: EU 34–42
Material: Calfskin leather
Style Notes: I'm always searching for leather that's ultra shiny but not quite patent. These gorgeous shoes from The Row tick every box. Hurry though, sizes sell out fast.
Sizes: 35–42 IT
Material: Lightly buffed leather
Style Notes: The stone embellishments and gold hardware give these loafers an interesting spin without being too maximalist.
Sizes: IT 36–42
Material: Leather