Loafers are the one type of shoes that everyone should have in their closet. “Loafers are a must-have in your shoe closet and a building block of your shoe wardrobe,” says Marissa Galante Frank, Fashion Director at Bloomingdale’s. If you like classic loafers, you probably also like chunky loafers, which are a new spin on the classic shoe. Natalie Tincher, founder of BU Style, adds, “Chunky loafers have staying power—they ground a look without feeling too formal.” “They’re easier to walk in than heels but more stylish than sneakers, so you can wear them to work or on the weekends.” And because loafers are always in trend, this style will last for a long time. You’re getting a trendy spin on a sneaker that will always be in style.
So, how can you pick the appropriate chunky loafer for you? Our best assortment has all kinds of shoes, from traditional styles and dazzling patent penny to innovative lug soles and podiatrist-approved options. Below are some of the greatest chunky loafers for this season, handpicked by the editors of Shop InStyle and some fashionable recommendations from industry professionals.
Why We Love It: The Whitney is a classic style from a well-known shoe company. It has a strong lug sole. We adore its classic and bold features, like the traditional moc toe, sculpted penny design, shiny outside (which makes the shoe easy to dress up), and, of course, the 1.5-inch lug heel. The cushioned insole makes sure you’re comfortable, which is a nice touch because beauty doesn’t have to mean agony. If you want a great pair of loafers that are simple to walk in, you can’t go wrong with this classic G.H. Bass model.
Tincher adds, “The Whitney Super Lug Sole Loafers are a true loafer hero with their timeless penny strap and minimal hardware.” “Pair them with straight or slim-straight ankle jeans and a relaxed, slightly oversized button-down shirt (borrowed from the boys) for a look that mixes classic and modern. Then, add a belt to tie it all together and give it more texture and depth.”
It’s important to note that this style is more loose, so it might not be the greatest choice if you require a shoe that can take you from day to night events.
Why We Love It: These platform loafers by Quince will make you look taller or shorter, depending on how you want to look. This shoe has a one-inch platform and a half-inch heel, which makes it the perfect height for both modern and classic looks. It comes in two basic colors and has a classic shape. This shoe is soft and classic since the upper is made of 100% Italian nappa leather and the inner is made of 100% cow leather.
Allie says, “A timeless design that goes well with classic straight-leg jeans, a T-shirt, and a sweater around the waist, or a soft minidress to add an androgynous flex.”
If you want loafers that stand out more in terms of color, you might want to seek for something else.
Why We Love It: Choose a penny loafer, like this stylish pair from Thursday Boot Company, to give your look a traditional base. The traditional style has a hand-stitched moccasin toe that gives it a classy yet still casual look. Also, the rubber outsoles and shock-absorbing insoles will make sure that it stays comfortable for a long time.
Allie says, “Choose a rich burgundy leather loafer instead of black.” This is a good way to change things up. “To make it look like one piece, wear it with warm, tonal shades of brown or red. For a trendy, sophisticated look, wear high-rise, wide-leg pants and a sleek, short cardigan as a top.
It’s important to note that these shoes may feel stiff at first and may take longer to break in than other options.
