19 Best Loafers for Women (Including Some Amazing Gucci Loafer Alternatives)

Robyn Moreno

November 25, 2022 at 10:39 AM·4 min read

Loafers are always in style. Let us help you find your next pair.

Loafers may be the trending shoe of '22, but they actually go way back in history: In fact, Native Americans are credited with creating the first pair of loafers, which were functional footwear made of deerskin. Across the pond, Scandanavian Sámi also wore a similar design that Norwegian milkers and fisherman later adopted and was brought over to the U.S. In 1936, GH Bass launched their famous penny-style loafers that were all the rage in the '50s beloved by legends like Buddy Holly, James Dean and Elvis Presley. In 1953, Gucci launched the equestrian-style horsebit loafer, which is a classic iteration all its own. From preppy lace-ups to sleek slides to platform versions, loafers have remained a fashion mainstay decade after decade. Now, Gen-Z is giving them a whirl with fans like Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber and Lily Collins sporting their loafers. We found all styles at all price points, so you can choose your fave this season, and we stumbled across some cheap-and-chic Gucci-style loafers, so you can look smart and still save for all your holiday shopping. Enjoy!

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19 Best Loafers for Women

1. Bass Whitney Weejun Loafer, $155 at G.H. Bass

Do you know why this classic style is called a "penny loafer?" Supposedly back in the day, phone booths (remember those!) used to cost two cents, so kids could stick a penny in each shoe to make a call. Pretty and practical! Bass Whitney Weejun Loafer, $155 at G.H. Bass