Loafers have always been a great staple in any fall wardrobe. You can dress loafers up or down, and they’re a great middle-of-the-road alternative to both sneakers and heels. Want something fancier than a sneaker? Grab loafers. Want to look polished but don’t want to wear heels? Grab loafers. And while the loafer itself is here to stay, today’s on-trend versions with chunky soles feel edgy and modern.
Here are my favorite chunky loafers and how to wear the trend.
SHOP MY EXACT LOAFERS (UNDER $100!)
How to Wear Chunky Loafers
Invest in a Neutral
To get the best bang for your buck, purchase a pair of chunky loafers in a classic color such as black, brown, or another neutral. These will work with anything in your closet, regardless of formality, color, or item. I’m personally a fan of black patent loafers because the shine adds some extra personality. I’ve had my black patent loafers for a couple years; you can find my exact chunky loafers under $100 here.
Try With Straight Leg Jeans
Look for slim or straight jeans that hit at or just above the ankle. Chunky loafers are bulkier, so even out proportions with something in a straight silhouette. Personally, I’d stay clear of skinny jeans for these shoes, because your feet will look clunky with such tight fabric. (If you do want to wear, skinny jeans, then offset the chunky loafers with an oversized, boxy coat.)
I recently purchased this pair of jeans from Rag & Bone. I love the high rise and clean, non-faded dark blue wash.
Pair with Something Short
Miniskirts, leather shorts, and short dresses are a major yes when it comes to chunky loafer outfits. Make these pieces seasonally appropriate and add hosiery like socks or tights (more on this below).
Add a Blazer
If you’re looking to dress up your chunky loafers, add a blazer. This third piece works well with jeans and a tee just as well as it does with a short skirt.
Chunky Loafers with Socks
One of my favorite ways to wear chunky loafers is with socks. Younger me would have cringed at this thought (“Too preppy!” I’d say), but there’s something I love about the pairing with today’s bulkier shoe silhouette. Something about it feels a little less precious and a little more cool-girl. You can wear white socks, black socks, or even socks in a bright color to add a fun pop to your look.
Add Tights
For cooler days, add tights to your high-hemline chunky loafers outfit. You’ll be able to achieve the same leggy look with an added layer of warmth.
Chunky Loafer Outfit Ideas
Chunky Loafers and a Long Coat
I love the ankle-grazing length of Selena Gomez’s coat, which matches that of her straight leg jeans. Topped with a white tee, this casual look still feels thought out and polished.
White Button Down and Black Leather Shorts with Chunky Loafers
I am all for this black and white outfit. If you don’t have black shorts, try a black mini skirt. Her oversized button down shirt with the half tuck makes this feel effortless, but still put together.
Chunky Loafers with an Oversized Blazer and Straight Leg Jeans
Blazers are an essential part of a fall jacket collection. Ditch your fitted workwear blazer and opt for a boxier cut that hits bellow the hip to look more current. A white tee keeps this look casual.
A Mini Dress and Socks
You don’t have to just stick with jeans when styling a chunky loafer outfit. Try a fun mini dress and some sheer black ankle socks.
See the full details on this look here.
Chunky Loafers with Black Socks and Jeans
The great thing about chunky loafers is that they looks great with socks, so I the fall when it’s cold, you can cover your ankles and still be on trend.
A Pop of Colorful Socks with Chunky Loafers
All black outfits are always sleek, but with a pop of color like red socks and a matching lip, this chunky loafers outfits just went to another level. I am obsessed with this and filing it in my brain for another day.
Try Warm Tones with Your Chunky Loafers
The most common chunky loafer out there is black, but that doesn’t mean you can’t lean into the warm tones of fall! Or, go all in and snag a pair of brown loafers.