Loafers Are the Biggest Shoe Trend of 2025, Here’s How To Style Them

Loafer shoes are having a moment. But styling them? That’s where things get interesting.

If you’ve spent any time scrolling through fashion feeds lately, you’ve probably noticed that loafer shoes are everywhere—chunky ones, sleek ones, classic penny styles, even heeled versions. They’ve cemented themselves as a wardrobe staple, proving that practical footwear doesn’t have to mean boring.

Unlike sneakers, which go with almost everything, loafers have a very particular energy. They lean polished, a little preppy, sometimes academic. They can read menswear-inspired or ultra-feminine, depending on what you pair them with. And because they have a structured silhouette, they can make or break an outfit depending on how you balance proportions. The key to making them work is understanding what vibe you want to go for and how the elements of your outfit play into that.

Understanding Loafer Silhouettes

Before diving into styling, let’s talk about the different types of loafers because they’re not all created equal. A classic penny loafer is sleek and polished, perfect for more structured outfits. Chunky loafers, with their thick soles and heavier build, bring a modern edge that contrasts beautifully with softer silhouettes. Heeled loafers provide a subtle lift and lean into a more dressed-up aesthetic, while horsebit loafers add an extra touch of refinement with their metallic details. Choosing the right loafer style depends on the mood you’re going for—structured and refined, edgy and bold, or effortlessly classic.

Loafers and Denim

There’s something inherently easy about pairing loafers with denim. The two just go together, like a great blazer and a perfectly worn-in white tee.

The key is getting the proportions right.

A straight-leg jean, slightly cropped to show a sliver of ankle, is the simplest way to wear them. It feels relaxed but still refined, especially if you opt for a sleek leather loafer.

If you want to go bolder, wide-leg jeans paired with chunky loafers create a striking contrast that feels modern and directional.

And for those who love a tailored touch, tapered denim or cigarette jeans give off a polished, Parisian-inspired energy that never fails.

Flared jeans bring an entirely different energy to loafers. Because they emphasize the lower half of the body, the loafer peeks out in a way that feels subtly retro but still current. To balance this look, a fitted top or a structured blazer can help define your shape while letting the jeans and loafers play their part.

Trousers and Loafers

If you’re aiming for something more refined, trousers are the perfect match for loafers. This combination has been a fashion staple for decades—it’s classic and adaptable.

Wide-leg trousers and loafers are a match made in heaven and this combo has worked for me in every season.

Keep the top structured or fitted to balance out the volume. For a more traditional look, slim or tapered trousers lean into the menswear inspiration, especially when paired with a cropped hem to let the loafers shine.

If you’re looking for something with a bit of edge, leather trousers contrast beautifully with loafers, creating a high-low mix that’s both modern and cool.

If you want to play with contrast, try a soft knit or oversized sweater with structured trousers and loafers. The relaxed top balances the structured bottom, creating an outfit that looks put together but not overly formal.

The Skirt and Loafer Combo

Loafers with skirts might not be the most obvious pairing, but that’s exactly what makes them interesting. The contrast between the structured shoe and the fluidity of a skirt is what makes this combination feel fresh.

Miniskirts and loafers strike the perfect balance between playful and polished. You can lean into the preppy aesthetic with knee-high socks or keep it minimal with a monochrome outfit to make your outfit feel more intentional.

If you’re a knee-length skirt girlie like me, styling might require a little more thought to avoid looking overly prim. I usually like to pair a silky slip skirt with chunky loafers or a structured midi with my horsebit pair for a cohesive look.

Maxi skirts, on the other hand, work well when loafers are used to ground the look, making the outfit feel more wearable for everyday.

Pleated skirts also work beautifully with loafers, particularly when paired with an oversized blazer or a tucked-in button-down. The combination of sharp tailoring and relaxed ease makes for a striking outfit that feels refined without being too rigid.

Dresses and Loafers

Dresses and loafers might not be your first instinct, but that’s exactly why they work so well together. The contrast between a soft, fluid dress and a structured loafer makes for an outfit that feels considered and stylish.

A slip dress and loafers create an effortlessly cool look with a touch of nonchalance. The contrast in textures keeps it from feeling too polished.

Sweater dresses and loafers are a winter staple that offers so much coziness without sacrificing structure. And you can throw on a pair of tights if the weather calls for it. Once the winter is over and spring rolls around, shirt dresses will be everywhere and loafer shoes pair well with those too. To keep things crisp and put together, cinch it with a belt or layer it with a tailored coat.

For a dressier approach, opt for heeled loafers with a fitted midi dress. The slight elevation of the loafer keeps things polished while maintaining that effortless vibe.