Loafers have made a big splash in the fashion world in recent years, but unlike many trends, they have proven to be here for the long-run. I’ve always loved the classic and preppy look that loafers bring to an outfit, but I also know that they can feel intimidating to style when you’re not used to wearing them.

They have a particular look that I think people feel nervous about dipping their toes into, but if this post does one thing, I hope it shows you that they can be quite a versatile closet addition. The reality is that you can wear loafers with so many different outfits and throughout all seasons. They’re also a great shoe option for both casual and dressed up occasions.

While I reach for loafers year-round, there’s something about them that feels especially fitting for transitional seasons. They can accommodate a variety of temperatures and elements, making them practical and easy to throw on (even if the weather is moody!)

If you’re into the look but aren’t quite sure where to start, I’m sharing a multitude of ideas on how to style loafers below. From everyday looks to business-appropriate wear, these loafer outfits will inspire you to ditch your sandals and sneakers for a more leveled-up shoe option.

Loafers Outfits

One major benefit to loafers is that there are so many different styles out there: heeled loafers, tassel loafers, slip-on loafers, metallic loafers, and even chunky loafers. I know that everyone has their own personal preferences, so I included several loafer finds above that suit various styles.

I’d encourage you to start out with a pair that you feel most comfortable in, then once you’re more used to the look, you can consider purchasing a more bold option. Tempted to go all in? Try a platform loafer or gold-embellished pair from the get-go. As always, the key is to go with whatever you’ll wear the most.

Read on for specific loafer outfit ideas…

How to Style Loafers

With Trousers

For the ultimate “cool girl” look, style your loafers with a basic pair of trousers. Both pieces are effortless and timeless, meaning you could easily mix and match each with various looks. I’d suggest keeping things simple on top with a t-shirt, tank, or sweater.

With a White Button-Down

There are few things as versatile as a white button-down shirt (in fact, I wrote a whole blog post on the different ways you can style one!) Because it’s such a universally loved piece — and one you likely have in your closet already — it makes for an ideal option to pair with loafers.

I styled the look below with another pair of trousers, but jeans or even denim shorts would also look chic!

With Barrel Jeans

If you’re not someone who likes to roll with the trends, this outfit might be pushing it. However, if you’re into the barrel jean look (I’m with you!) the combo results in a laid-back yet cute outfit. You could obviously swap the barrel jeans for a straight leg pair if that’s more your thing.

Also, I always suggest incorporating accessories, like a statement belt or jewelry, to really give your outfit a “styled” feel.

With Denim Shorts (and With or Without Socks)

Jeans might be an obvious bottom option to style with loafers, but denim shorts have a more unexpected feel. This look highlights classic style (the loafers, white button down, and leather belt) as well as more edgy elements (the crop top and socks) for a well-balanced and fun end result.

The socks definitely add a more bold feel to the outfit. If that addition seems like too much for your taste, you could still rock some shorts with penny loafers (sans socks!)

With a Trench Coat

Like I mentioned at the beginning of this post, loafers are an ideal shoe choice to reach for during transitional seasons. They cover up your toes and the back of your feet without requiring you to commit to booties or even sneakers.

If you’re dressing for fall or spring weather, you likely want to find a loafer outfit that emphasizes layering, and this is the ideal option. Trench coats have an equally as preppy feel as loafers, so the duo only makes sense together. Again, you could swap the trousers for jeans if that’s what you prefer!

With a Dress

On the flip side of things, dressing for warmer climates shouldn’t stop you from wearing loafers. They can make a pretty addition to both mini and midi dresses. Throw on a denim jacket or long cardigan if you need an extra layer.

With a Blazer

Speaking of layers, why not incorporate a blazer into your loafer outfit? A simple way to ease into this look is by adding a blazer on top of a mini dress. Accessorizing with a belt can help define your waist and pull each piece together into a more uniform look.

With Stirrup Leggings

This look was made for the more daring gal. Start with a pair of stirrup leggings and chunky black loafers and style them with a tank top or bodysuit and a blazer. This look is professional enough that you could wear it to the office or a business meeting yet chic enough that you could go straight to a post-work happy hour.

With a Skirt and Button-Up Shirt

If you ever watched Gossip Girl, this outfit might take you back to the series. It definitely has a preppy vibe, but I personally think it’s fun to touch on that (especially during the fall months!) I opted for tucked in white button-up shirt once again but any top would work.

Which loafer outfit idea is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!