The Best Women's Loafers to Wear on Business Trips, Walking Tours, and to Brunch
Business travel calls for chic footwear that's also practical, and there's one shoe that's always up for the job: the loafer. The best women's loafers are stylish and sensible. We rounded up our top picks, from splurge-worthy designer brands like Gucci to long-standing Traveler favorites like Rothy's and Everlane. We kept comfort and versatility in mind, choosing shoes that are not only office appropriate, but can also be paired with more casual outfits when you're off the clock and ready to explore. With a variety of colors, designs, and sizes—we're sure you'll find your perfect fit. As loafers are often primarily made from leather, there isn't much wiggle room, so we've listed options that have sizing variations when it comes to the width of your foot. Below, the 20 best loafers for women to wear while traveling.
Are loafers good for walking?
Yes, loafers can be a great option for long days on your feet. Loafers are much more stylish than a sneaker, yet still functional. While loafers are primarily made with leather, we gathered options that keep comfort at the forefront without forgoing style. Loafers can withstand various weather conditions and are made to mold to your foot.
What's the difference between a loafer and a mule?
Both loafers and mules are easy to slip on and come in flat or heeled options. The real difference lies in the back of the shoe—mules have an open back concept while loafers have a closed back that completely covers the heel.
Should you wear socks with loafers?
Wearing socks is not mandatory, but wearing a pair of no-show socks is a great addition for loafers that sit a bit higher on the heel. If you plan on wearing them in colder weather, add some long patterned socks for a chic look.
Our top picks:
Best for walking: Lifestride Zee loafers
Best for business travel: Cole Haan Newburg loafers
Best for wide feet: Trotters Liz Loafer
Best splurge: The Row Adam grained-leather loafers
This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
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Cole Haan women's Grand Ambition slip-on loafer
These loafers feel as comfortable as your go-to pair of sneakers. They offer added traction on the bottom to keep you from slipping, footbeds meant to mold to your feet, and cushioned padding on the heel to prevent rubbing. Choose from black, navy blue, ivory, burgundy, and black leather.
Sizes available: 4-12
Materials: LeatherVince Camuto Enachel Heeled Loafer
The classic loafer gets a fresh update styled with a retro-vibe square toe and chunky, stacked-look heel. The comfortable, collegiate-cool slip-on is traditionally crafted with a topstitched moccasin toe and penny-keeper strap. Wear your pair with a plaid pleated skirt and a crisp button-up for a preppy edit.
Sizes available: 5-12
Materials: Leather, suedeThe Row Adam grained-leather loafers
These lightweight loafers take up little to no room in your carry-on and are simple yet elegant. Crafted by Italian artisans, the loafers are shaped to a rounded, almond tip and made from black grained leather.
Sizes available: 5-12
Materials: Leather
Everlane The Modern Loafer
Rothy's The Driver
Not only are these driving loafers chic, they're also comfortable, supportive, and eco-friendly. Rothy's entire lineup of sustainable footwear (which includes slip-ons, boots, and even lace-up sneakers) is made out of recycled water bottles. Plus, all of Rothy's footwear is machine washable, so you can keep shoes looking fresh season after season. The shoe is available in more than 10 colors, including navy sapphire, raspberry, deep chocolate, and sesame (pictured).
Sizes available: 5-13
Materials: Recycled plastic bottles
M.Gemi The Felize loafer
These sumptuous suede driving loafers are hand-stitched by Tuscan shoemakers and come in rich tones like sunset red, magenta, and Adriatic blue, as well as neutral classics like black, latte, and midnight navy (pictured). According to brand, they do run small, so for the best fit, order up a half size.
Sizes available: 5-12, half sizes offered
Materials: Suede, leatherTod's Kate chain flat loafers
Vionic Kensley loafer
If you're looking for a loafer that skews more casual, or your itinerary includes a lot of walking, opt for this Vionic pick. The ultra-cushioned footbed will make you feel like you're walking on air. The shoe, which is available in black and light pink, is made with leather, lined with fabric, and has a lug sole with a 1.5" heel.
Sizes available: 5-12; offers medium and wide width options
Materials: LeatherRothy's The Lug Loafer
Rothy's newest loafer is equally comfortable and stylish. It's the perfect addition to any traveler's capsule wardrobe—lightweight, versatile, and a neutral color like this will match just about anything. The lug loafer features a chunky sole that adds a little bit of height without the bulk of a heel.
Sizes available: 5-13, half sizes offered
Materials: Recycled plastic bottles
Gucci Jordaan leather loafers
These Italian leather loafers are the epitome of luxury. No detail is overlooked, from fine stitching to the metal hardware. If you're a regular business traveler, investing in these designer shoes may be worth the splurge. Shop the classic loafer in black or brown.
Sizes available: 4-12
Materials: LeatherFranco Sarto Eda loafer
Eastland Patricia loafers
These leather penny loafers fit like a glove and feature a rubber traction sole that keeps you comfortable while walking around even the biggest city center. Seen here in cognac, the shoe is also available in black and dark brown.
Sizes available: 6-11; offers medium and wide width options
Materials: Leather
Vince Camuto Golinda flat loafers
Vince Camuto shoes always strike the right balance between comfort and style. These classic loafers are no exception, and can take you from the airport to the office with ease. Seen here in mahogany leather, the shoe is also available in black patent leather, blue, and a tortilla tan.
Sizes available: 5-12
Materials: LeatherTrotters Liz loafer
Woven leather gives these simple loafers a fresh feel. The slender, sleek silhouette pairs well with everything from trousers and denim to skirts and dresses. The shoe is available in more than 12 colors, including black, white, beige, red, tan, pink, and lilac.
Sizes available: 5-13, various widths offered
Materials: LeatherSperry Seaport penny loafer
If you're looking for a higher lift, these heeled loafers deliver it with grace. The shoe is made with premium leather and features a fine stitch detailing and a 2.5" heel. The interior has a cushioned insole, and the rubber sole gives you extra grip and traction so you can make your way confidently across any urban jungle.
Sizes available: 5-12
Materials: LeatherLifestride Zee loafers
Lifestride's casual take on the classic penny loafer is lightweight and amply cushioned. If you're headed on a walking tour, these will keep you comfortable without sacrificing elegance. Seen here in dark brown, the loafer is also available in black, gray, navy, and a croc-printed black.
Sizes available: 5-12
Materials: Leather
