The Loafers I Would Actually Wear This Fall: Driving, Lug Sole and Penny Styles

*Updated September 2026

A couple of years after COVID, I tired of sneakers, gym shoes, slippers, and flip flops. We were able to get away with super casual looks since we weren’t heading into the office, restaurants or really much of anywhere. It was a time of athleisure wear and comfort to the core. Don’t get me wrong, I still prefer lounge-y comfort over getting dressed up, but there came a time when I craved a bit more balance with my wardrobe. I haven’t been back into an office since COVID so it’s been awhile for me. We were working remotely, and I left my corporate career a few years ago to pursue working for myself in a world of more creative endeavors. So, my return to wearing office-appropriate outfits never manifested. But, I began to crave wearing something a bit more substantial than leggings and my New Balances. I brought jeans and trousers back into my rotation, along with ballet flats and loafers. I chose sweaters and button-downs over sweatshirts and sundresses in the summer.

Loafers were not a part of my life until a couple of years ago, when I got that itch to start “mindfully” dressing again. Clogs though? Absolutely. I’ve always loved them in all their forms. I went out on a limb and purchased a pair of loafers from M.Gemi (beautiful Italian-made shoes), and I fell in love! They make any outfit immediately feel a bit more grown-up, polished… just a bit more sophisticated and grounded than a sneaker could ever do. Yes, sneakers are the ultimate cool-girl shoes, and I won’t lie, my closet is chock-full of them. But a really gorgeous loafer instantly elevates even the most basic outfits.

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As for clogs? Give me all of them! I have been wearing Birkenstock clogs since high school. What I didn’t realize is there are clogs made by some great brands that can look just as polished as loafers (just with a more boho vibe). This insanely stylish woman I know was wearing a pair of handmade Swedish clogs with a wooden base and gorgeous yellow leather straps and she paired them with a maxi dress and a cropped leather jacket…and I went bananas for her look. She took what wasn’t an exceptionally interesting dress and made the whole outfit look like this ultimate polished yet free-spirited look by adding the funky clogs to complete the outfit. I’ve been wearing clogs on rotation ever since.

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Both loafers and clogs helped bring me out of my COVID style slump, and I’m excited to say that they are even better than ever now. There are so many gorgeous offerings out there right now. From chunky to horsebit style loafers and wood-bottomed to shearling-lined clogs, there’s so many styles that work with so many different looks and I’m happy to share some of my favorites below.

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The Trendy Loafers for 2026

Lug Sole Loafers

There’s a reason lug sole loafers keep coming back every fall. They have all the polish of a traditional loafer, but the chunkier sole makes them feel a little more modern and, frankly, a lot more practical. I especially like them with straight-leg jeans, cropped pants or even a dress when I want something that feels pulled together without being too precious. The heavier sole also gives you a little extra height and cushioning underfoot, which can make them more comfortable for everyday wear. They’re one of those shoes that can make a very basic outfit feel intentional without requiring much effort.

Penny Loafers

Penny loafers are one of those shoes that never really go out of style. They’re classic and polished, but not so dressy that they feel out of place with jeans and a sweater. I love them because they can easily take the place of a ballet flat when you want a little more structure, and they work just as well with trousers, skirts and dresses. The traditional low heel and simple leather upper also make them incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for a shoe you can wear now and still pull out five years from now, a good penny loafer is hard to beat.

Driving Loafers

Driving loafers are the more relaxed cousin of the traditional loafer. They’re typically softer and more flexible, with the signature rubber-pebbled sole that was originally designed to provide extra grip while driving. What I like about them is how easy they are to wear. They slip on like a flat but still look polished enough to make jeans, chinos or casual trousers feel a little more finished. They’re especially good for travel or days when you’ll be doing a lot of running around and want something comfortable that doesn’t look overly casual.

FAQs About Loafers

I hope you found some styles you love! It’s always my hope that what I find lovely is a welcome addition to your own style.

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