You might say it all started when a man from Italy had a quirky idea. When Gucci’s Alessandro Michelle introduced a pair of leather backless loafers with a footbed covered in shaggy fur, it didn’t take long for this cozy mule to reach cult status, appearing on the feet of trend-setters like Kendall Jenner, Alexa Chung and Sienna Miller, not to mention fashion editors around the globe.
This fall’s best loafers offer a great counterbalance to the ultra-feminine lace-up flats that became ubiquitous over the past year. We can already picture their substantial soles and menswear-inspired design as the ideal equalizer to the floaty pleated midi skirts at the top of our autumn shopping list. (Go figure, Gucci inspired that comeback, too!)
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Of course, a backless fuzzy mule that will set you back nearly $1,000 isn’t the only way to rock the loafer trend when temperatures finally start to cool down. Bold colors, metallics, heels, and pointed toe styles are all top of mind this season. Now, we’re not saying they’re going to replace your fall boots, but don’t blame us when they start giving you that sad puppy dog stare from the bottom of your closet. Ahead, shop our ultimate guide to fall loafers.
Classic
A penny loafer in black or brown leather might feel dated, but give it a fresh, Alexa Chung-approved spin with a pair of cropped denim flares and a silk blouse.
Shop the pieces (from top): Tory Burch, 295; toryburch.com. Manolo Blahnik, $745; barneys.com. Jack Rogers, $148; jackrogersusa.com.
Heeled
A heeled loafer makes a great alternative to your go-to block heel pumps for the office—try them with shift dress or fluted hem skirt.
Shop the pieces (from top): Chloe, $875; barneys.com. London Rebel, $49 (originally $81); asos.com. Gucci, $795; gucci.com.
Backless
We hate to play favorites, but the backless mule-loafer hybrid may be our favorite silhouette of the season. We can’t wait to wear these with a pair of vintage Levi’s and a cashmere sweater.
Shop the pieces (from top): Gianvito Rossi, $675; barneys.com. Faith, $106; asos.com. Nine West, $99; ninewest.com.
Statement
Turn heads with a bright metallic or patterned pair of loafers that will instantly make anything you wear 40 percent cooler. (It’s science, we promise.)
Shop the pieces (from top): Topshop, $115; topshop.com. J. Crew, $298; jcrew.com. Asos, $46; asos.com.
Pointed
A pointed toe loafer makes a great option for those looking for a more feminine take on the trend.
Shop the pieces (from top): Tabitha Simmons, $645; theline.com. Nicholas Kirkwood, $425; barneys.com. Rupert Sanderson, $358 (originally $895); stylebop.com.
