The autumn loafer guide
A good pair of loafers can bring together outfits you already own: straight-leg jeans and a knit, trousers for work, or a midi skirt with tights. The trick is finding a shape that suits your feet and a colour you will reach for regularly.
We have picked four styles from our current collection at Leavys Shoes, with different fits and soles to help you compare. Here is what to look for, along with a few easy outfit ideas.
Think about an ordinary day. Choose a pair that feels right for the time you expect to spend on your feet. A heel height, cushioned footbed or wide-fit label can help narrow the choice, but trying the shoes on tells you much more.
These styles were available when we put this guide together. Open each product page to check your size and the latest availability.
For a wider fit
H wide fit · 3 cm wedge · Synthetic upper
A rounded toe, tonal chain detail and low wedge give this glossy black style an understated finish. Elastic inserts beside the tongue add flexibility at the opening.
Wear with: dark straight-leg jeans and a relaxed knit, or navy trousers and a simple blouse.
View Jana wide-fit loafers
For a chunkier sole
Standard fit · 4 cm block heel · Synthetic upper
The cleated sole, metallic trim and textured patent-effect finish give this pair a bolder look. The MT FEEL ME footbed adds cushioning underfoot.
Wear with: ankle-length grey trousers and a cardigan, or a denim skirt with opaque tights.
View Marco Tozzi chunky loafers
For warm autumn colours
Standard fit · 3.5 cm block heel · Synthetic upper
Cognac brown, a square toe and gold-tone horsebit trim make a lovely combination with autumn neutrals. This style includes a TOUCHit footbed.
Wear with: cream or taupe trousers and a camel coat, or dark blue jeans with an oatmeal jumper.
View Tamaris cognac loafers
For a little colour
Standard fit · 3.5 cm block heel · Synthetic upper
A deep burgundy shade and gold-tone detail dress up a simple outfit. The textured patent-effect upper is paired with an MT FEEL ME footbed and Soft Lining.
Wear with: charcoal trousers and a cream knit, or dark denim with a navy jacket.
View Marco Tozzi dark red loafersStraight-leg jeans are an easy starting point. Try a hem that finishes around the ankle so the loafer is visible, or a small turn-up if the denim suits it. Add a knit or a shirt and cardigan. Black keeps the outfit simple; cognac or dark red brings in a little contrast.
For work, try loafers with tailored ankle-length trousers and a fine knit. With a wider leg, a chunkier sole can look nicely balanced. Try the outfit on together and check that trouser hems clear the floor rather than catching beneath your heel.
A midi skirt and a soft jumper work well with a smaller block heel. Chunky black loafers give a denim or A-line skirt a more casual feel. Black opaque tights with black loafers create a simple, continuous line; deep brown or burgundy can work with warmer colours.
Yes. Fine socks are an easy choice for cooler days: match them to trousers for a subtle look, or try a cream ribbed pair as a visible detail. Try loafers on with socks or tights you plan to wear, because thickness changes how the shoe feels. Thick socks should not be needed to hold an oversized pair in place.
Loafers have no laces to adjust, so pay attention to width, heel hold and pressure across the top of your foot. Your toes should have room without being squeezed, and you should not need to curl them to keep the shoes on. If your heel repeatedly lifts out, or the upper pinches, reconsider the size or shape.
Do not automatically size down to stop slipping or size up to gain width. Our guide to checking shoe fit explains what to look for. For Jana, see our H-fit and sizing guide, including EU, UK and cm/mm measurements.
Our advice is to start by sitting at home with your new shoes on for about an hour, without walking around. Foot warmth can help the upper settle around your feet. Take them off for the rest of the day. Build up gradually over the following days and introduce short periods of walking once they feel comfortable while seated. Take them off sooner if they hurt; wearing in will not correct the wrong fit.
Read our full guide to wearing in new shoes before their first long day.
All four pairs featured here have synthetic patent-effect uppers. Check care instructions before applying a product, and use only cleaners suitable for that finish. Wipe away everyday marks gently with a soft, slightly damp cloth and leave shoes to dry away from direct heat. A glossy finish does not mean a shoe is waterproof. Our shoe material care guide has more advice.
Start with a colour that works with your favourite trousers or jeans, then choose the fit and sole that feel right for you.
Shop women's casual shoes & loafers
Need help comparing sizes or styles? Contact Leavys Shoes and we will be happy to help.
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