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September 11, 2024

How to Style Loafers: Enjoy Endless Outfit Inspiration

Source: David Karp on Unsplash

When styled thoughtfully, loafers can elevate any look—from contemporary to old-school. With so many modern designs, colors, and materials to choose from, these classic shoes are endlessly versatile.

Learn how to style loafers with women’s most popular trends. Mix and match the following concepts and create a look that’s completely your own.

How to wear loafers: 12 stylish ideas 

Loafers are a multipurpose choice that can elevate any outfit, perfect with both classic items and edgier looks. If you're not sure how to wear women's loafers, look to these 12 outfit ideas for inspiration.

1. Cropped boyfriend jeans

Black loafers are the epitome of flexibility, perfect for both casual and formal outfits. Add them to cropped boyfriend jeans and a crisp white tee for a laid-back outfit, or swap the tee for an oversized blazer for a more polished finish.

This look takes you from the office to a weekend coffee date to Saturday night cocktails. Loafers’ sleek silhouette complement the relaxed fit and wash of your favorite boyfriend jeans, creating a balanced, effortless appearance.

A woman wearing a gray blazer, sunglasses, round earrings, black t-shirt, cropped blue denim boyfriend jeans, and black loafers, with one hand in her pocket and the other holding a black handbag.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

2. A pleated midi skirt 

Pair tassel loafers with a pleated midi skirt and fitted sweater from a preppy brand like Ralph Lauren or Tommy Hilfiger. Loafers with tassels add menswear vibes to your look, a fun contrast with the ultra-feminine skirt. 

This is an essential outfit for weekend brunch or an all-day work session because you'll stay comfortable while looking put-together.

A woman in a dark blue pleated midi skirt, brown tassel loafers, white sweater, sunglasses, and holding a brown handbag, while standing in front of a door and bushes.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

3. Faux leather leggings 

Leather loafers can be dressed up or down according to your personal style. For an edgy, casual look, pair them with faux leather leggings, a graphic tee, and a structured moto jacket. A blazer or trench coat turns leather loafers into something more formal—wear this outfit with a dress to work happy hour or on a date.

A woman wearing black faux leather leggings, black leather loafers, a trench coat, a scarf, and carrying a shoulder handbag, with one hand in the coat pocket.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

4. High-waisted trousers 

If you love the classics, penny loafers never go out of style. Pair them with high-waisted trousers and a simple tank top, T-shirt, or blouse. This minimalist outfit is excellent for a business meeting but casual enough for a meal with friends. Since the ensemble is like a blank (but chic) canvas, accessorize with whatever strikes your fancy—like a colorful purse, heels, sneakers, or fine jewelry.

A woman wearing beige high-waisted trousers, black penny loafers, a white tank top, a light scarf, and round sunglasses.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

5. A mini skirt

Chunky loafers are a retro trend making a comeback. Wear them with socks, a mini skirt, and a long-sleeved T-shirt or turtleneck sweater for a fun, throwback style. This old-school outfit has a flirty, '70s feel, and the shoes' thick soles give you some extra height for a more dramatic look.

A woman reclining against a white wall, wearing chunky black loafers, a dark gray mini skirt, a long-sleeved dark gray t-shirt, round sunglasses, and a black beret.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

6. Skinny jeans 

Brown loafers are a great alternative to typical black. The tone offers a warmer vibe that's excellent paired with skinny jeans and a cozy oversized cardigan or knit sweater—a relaxed and stylish aesthetic. And the earthy hues make this an excellent fashion trend for fall. Complete the look with a scarf and a crossbody bag from one of these popular brands on ThredUp.

A woman in blue denim skinny jeans, an oversized cream-colored cardigan, a scarf, a brown shoulder handbag, and sunglasses, with one hand in her pocket.​
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

7. A flowy maxi dress 

Dresses and loafers scream summer, and white loafers are a fresh choice. Style them with a flowy maxi dress and a denim jacket, perfect for casual-wear Friday at work, a daytime date, or a festival with friends. Crisp white loafers add a bright, summery touch to the outfit that you won't get with a darker color.

A woman in a pink maxi dress, white loafers, a blue denim jacket, and sunglasses, holding a straw handbag.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

8. Tailored shorts 

Pair tailored shorts with suede loafers and a silk blouse for a chic and luxurious look. The suede's soft texture adds depth and interest to the outfit, while the shorts and blouse offer a sophisticated structure, perfect for a lunch date in spring or summer.

A woman walking in front of a building, wearing beige tailored shorts, brown loafers, a long-sleeved white shirt, a beige scarf, and sunglasses, while holding a brown handbag.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

9. A pencil skirt 

Polished and professional is the name of the game when you pair loafers with a pencil skirt. Reach for a high-waisted pencil skirt for a sleek silhouette, and tuck in a blouse. Or if you prefer a casual feel, opt instead for an oversized T-shirt or tank top. The loafers' structured design complements the pencil skirt's tailored look. All you need to complete the look is a statement belt from ThredUp. 

A woman in a dark blue pencil skirt, a long-sleeved white shirt, black loafers, sunglasses, and holding a black handbag, standing on cobblestone paving.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

10. A sweater dress 

A sweater dress with loafers is both cozy and chic. This outfit is ideal for fall or winter because the warm dress keeps you comfortable while the shoes’ sturdy design matches the season’s mood. Choose a knee-length or midi sweater dress for a playful look, and add a long coat and tights on cold days. Then, accessorize with a piece of preloved jewelry from ThredUp.

A woman in sunglasses and black loafers, wearing a long green coat over a light gray sweater dress and long black socks, holding a black handbag.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

11. A floral sundress 

Loafers are the perfect complement to your favorite floral sundress—such a comfortable, trendy look. Whether you're attending a garden party or hanging out at the park, the loafers’ polished vibe contrasts nicely with the dress’s flowy fabric. And for a rustic-inspired outfit, add a straw hat or purse from ThredUp.

A woman in white loafers, a floral sundress, a beige sweater, a straw hat, and carrying a straw shoulder handbag.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

12. Wide-leg pants 

Wide-leg pants pair beautifully with loafers. This fashion-forward choice fits well with a range of tops, from loose to structured. Loafers make the look suitable for both work and casual settings, and choosing a patterned or textured pair introduces some playful detail. Add a belt, and the ensemble is complete.

A woman reclining against a wall, wearing light blue wide-leg pants, a blue denim jacket over a colorfully striped T-shirt, light pink loafers, and sunglasses, with a white handbag over her shoulder.
Disclaimer: This image was AI-generated.

Find stylish and affordable loafers on ThredUp

Loafers are a versatile addition to any wardrobe, introducing endless outfit inspiration. Thrift yours on ThredUp to create unique looks for work, daytime events, and elegant dinners.

ThredUp is your go-to destination for high-quality, preloved clothing, with an extensive selection that includes everything needed to enhance your personal style. Plus, our improved Search feature makes it a breeze to find precisely what you need. Simply search by image or detailed phrase and our AI-powered tool will generate highly targeted results.

Plus, ThredUp is committed to helping you maintain a guilt-free wardrobe, providing sustainable clothing that’s easier on your wallet. Using our Clean Out kits is the perfect way to enjoy these benefits—send us your gently used clothes so they can find new homes while you earn thrifting credit for your great new finds.