Loafers: The polished yet preppy flat found in every stylish woman's wardrobe. I know it may sound like I’m exaggerating, but trust me, if you were to take a look into any fashion editor, influencer or street styler's wardrobe, I can practically guarantee you’d find at least one pair of loafers hidden inside.
A few years ago, I would have taken this prediction a step further and bet good money that said loafers would have been classic, in a black leather finish, most likely with some form of gold detailing (Gucci Horsebits, I’m looking at you). Now, however, I’d be far less certain as, while traditional black loafers will always hold ground in our wardrobe, there’s a new shoe trend that’s been gaining momentum with those in the fashion know. A continuation of autumn's suede trend and our penchant for menswear-inspired detailing this season, Suede loafers are on the rise, and I predict we’re going to be seeing a lot of them throughout AW25.
To prove this, think back to the autumn of last year, when the preppy trend was taking hold and everyone was rushing to get their hands on M&S’ viral suede loafers — seen above on influencer, Sarah Louise Blythe. At just £55, the soft-touch style sent fashion obsessives scrambling into stores and endlessly refreshing their browsers in hopes of scoring the coveted style.
Those lucky enough to get their hands (or should I say feet) on them waxed lyrically on social media praising the suede slip-ons for their luxury, expensive-looking finish, despite their bargain price tag, leaving those of us who missed out with a serious case of buyer's regret.
Fast forward a year, and while we’re now spoilt for choice when it comes to chic, suede loafers to choose between, we’re still just as eager to get our hands on them. On TikTok, suede loafers are steadily growing as the weather turns colder, while The Row's suede loafers are proving seriously popular with influencers, having already sold out on multiple retailers.
So, where can you still get your hands on a pair of sleek suede loafers? Well, thankfully, both luxury designers and the high street have taken note of our growing adoration. From rich chocolate brown styles to light tan suede loafers, perfect for transitioning your wardrobe from summer to autumn, there are so many options to choose from.
A word of warning, however: much like M&S’ now sold-out loafers, many of the best suede loafers in the edit below are already selling just as fast, so don't hang around too long if you see a pair you like — believe me, the buyers' regret club is not a happy place to be.
