The word classic gets tossed around a lot in the fashion industry. What does it actually mean? For me, a true classic is timeless and versatile. Think: a Burberry trench or perfectly worn-in vintage Levi’s jeans–pieces that transcend trends and can be styled endlessly. When it comes to footwear, it’s the loafer that never fails me. With origins in the early 20th century, the best loafers have graced the feet of style icons for generations—and for good reason! Reimagined in countless iterations over the years, they remain one of the most effortless shoes to wear today. Simultaneously polished and comfortable, loafers can easily be dressed up for a meeting for work, or down for a weekend off-duty.

Vogue’s Favorite Spring Loafers

• The Timeless Classic: G.H. Bass Larson Weejun loafers, $175
• The Loafer Mule: Hereu Bonel mules, $500
• The Soft Suede: Saint Laurent Le Loafer suede loafers, $1,100
• The High-Shine Croc: Emme Parsons Danielle croc-effect leather loafers, $595
• The Two-Tone: Stuart Weitzman Lottie two-tone leather loafers, $525
• The Spring White: Gucci Horsebit 1953 loafers, $1,050
• The Simple Sleek: Khaite Billy loafers, $820
• The Tassel Detail: Church’s Maidstone tasselled leather loafers, $995

These days nearly every luxury fashion house has their version of the loafer, from Gucci and Loewe to Bottega Veneta and Celine. It’s easy to find excellent options for less, too. G.H. Bass for one, created its bevloved Weejun style in 1936 and continues making them today.

Loafers are also seasonless. They can be worn year-round (barring the occasional snowstorm, of course). But it’s during the transitional months of spring that they truly shine. They’re the perfect in-between shoe for unpredictable weather and shifting wardrobes. If you’re ready to slip into a pair this season, explore our styling guide for the chicest ways to wear them now.

With Shorts Suit

Style tasseled loafers with an unexpected suiting shape—think tailored shorts and a blush pink button-down—for an effortlessly cool office ensemble.

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With a Pleated Skirt

Take a page out of the Prada playbook by pairing preppy two-tone loafers with a pleated skirt and studded belt.

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With a Full Skirt

Gucci’s crisp white loafers add to the elegance of a voluminous skirt and cropped trench.

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With Sporty Separates

Go sporty-chic with Saint Laurent’s suede loafers, teamed with glossy board shorts, slouchy socks, and oversized layers.

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With a Floral Dress

Ground a printed spring dress with easy, backless loafers for a look that’s sweet, not saccharine.

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With Light-Wash Jeans

Keep it simple: minimalist loafers, straight-leg denim, and a button-down always work.

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With Spring Whites

Add sharp contrast to an all-white spring look with Emme Parsons’s high-shine croc loafers.

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