Last Updated on September 18, 2021
We’re ready to try more experimental trends now that lockdown has been lifted and we can dress up and be out again – but for those of you who have become accustomed to comfortable dressing, you’ll be glad to know that one of the biggest shoe trends for autumn-winter 2021 is the trusty loafer.
Comfortable, easy to style and as chic as they come, loafers have been an important part of a capsule wardrobe ever since Gucci brought them onto our radars in 2014.
Prada, Balenciaga and Simone Rocha are just some of the designers who are favouring the style again this season, this time adding a chunky sole for a 2021 update.
READ MORE: The sandals that will be trending this spring (and where to buy them now)
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Are loafers in style in 2021?
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Loafers were one of spring’s biggest shoe trends this year, with Prada’s brushed leather loafers leading the way. If you’re on more of a tight budget, read our guide to Prada loafers dupes that are available on the high street now.
Even though we’re inching closer to a new season, loafers will stay. Chunky loafers are one of autumn-winter 2021’s top shoe trends, according to shoe expert Agnes Cushnie. (Find out what other shoe styles are hot for the season in our interview with Cushnie here.)
We saw the style on the runways of Loewe, Max Mara, and more. We spotted it on the streets too. There’s Bella Hadid wearing extra-thick loafers. ’90s star Kate Hudson was spotted wearing the style too albeit in a sleeker style.
Styling these pairs is up to you, of course, but in case you need a bit of inspiration you can look at dark academia for ideas. The ’90s is a good era to look at too — there’s Cher from ‘Clueless’ for starters.
As always, we encourage you to embrace trends with longevity, favouring pieces you’ll keep forever and those that will always give you confidence over fleeting trends you’ll only wear for a season.
Buy now

Track Sole Loafers With Buckle, £49.99, Zara – buy now

Monster Chunky Loafers in Black, £30, ASOS DESIGN – buy now

Chunky-Sole Leather Loafers, £150, Arket – buy now

Ringo Heavy Ring Loafer, £245, Russell & Bromley – buy now

Cosmo Chain Loafer Black, £100, Office – buy now