From Belgian Styles to Tassel Details, These Are the Top Loafer Trends for Winter 2026
There's something undeniably chic about loafers. Equal parts polished and effortlessly cool, the timeless shoes have long been a fixture in the wardrobes of fashion insiders, earning their place as a year-round staple that transcends fleeting trends. For winter 2026, the classic silhouette is getting a fashionable refresh. From the understated elegance of Belgian loafers to the playful movement of tassel-adorned pairs, this season's iterations prove that there's far more to the style than its traditional leather construction. Designers are embracing unexpected textures, rich seasonal hues, and refined details, reworking the perennial favorite in time for colder weather.
Leading the charge are sumptuous velvet and suede finishes, which bring a welcome sense of texture and depth to winter dressing, alongside slipper-inspired loafers that blur the line between comfort and sophistication. Meanwhile, the return of Belgian loafers speaks to fashion's enduring appreciation for understated, heritage-inspired design, and tassel details offer a touch of old-world charm with a modern sensibility. For those looking to make a statement, red loafers are emerging as the season's accent shoes, injecting even the simplest outfit with a dose of color. Whether you're drawn to Celine's pared-back polish, Khaite's contemporary approach to wardrobe classics, Gucci's unmistakable heritage, or J.Crew's take on everyday sophistication, there's a loafer trend to suit every aesthetic. Ahead, discover the six loafer styles worth knowing for winter 2026. Consider this your invitation to give your cold-weather shoe rotation a stylish upgrade.
Slipper Loafers
Tassel Loafers
Belgian Loafers
Velvet Loafers
Suede Loafers
Red Loafers
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear. She oversees luxury and runway content, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including The New York Times, Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte and Allure. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.