It’s official: chunky loafers are the fashion pack’s favourite flat footwear for spring, just like they were for winter, autumn and the spring before that… As far as trends go, we decree that chunky loafers have transcended the one season wonder and are fast on track to reaching modern icon status (along with trench coats, blazers and cross-body bags). How can something so versatile and on-trend look so timeless? We’re in awe. The chunky loafer really is the shoe that does it all.
Ahead, GLAMOUR’s ultimate guide to the ultimate chunky loafers for 2023 features the best pairs that are new in and ready to shop right now, along with some tips and tricks on how to style them. You’re welcome.
If you have a pair of chunky loafers in your wardrobe, you already know that they’re likely to be a regular style saviour – although if you’re looking to add a pair to your shoe collection, we confirm they will still be a brilliant investment. When it comes to cost per wear, you’ll be making a savvy financial choice and a sustainable win, too.
As well as appearing all over the high street, this season’s new in chunky sole loafers have been a hit on the catwalk. Chunky loafers walked the runway at Gucci (the fashion house responsible for those iconic snaffle loafers) and Stella McCartney, where faux leather loafers come vegan-approved. From there, it was a small step onto the feet of Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, who both rock comfy, chunky loafers with wide leg jeans and oversized jackets (as does every other influencer in your feed).
If we could only choose one pair? Prada’s Monolith loafers in black leather are the most desirable new season style to shop and a perpetual top ten on the GLAMOUR fashion team’s wishlist. For more affordable loafer shoes, ASOS is a must shop destination while COS’s square toe loafers are an on-trend take if you’re looking for a black leather style.
The good news is that chunky loafers look pretty damn perfect with everything. They add edge to pretty dresses with a boyfriend blazer thrown over the top, obviously they work in office-appropriate outfits – like with a slouchy trouser suit or tailoring – and they also provide the ultimate accent to jeans and a jumper when you’re ticking off those weekend errands. You could try a pair of suede loafers or a pale colour, instead of black leather loafers, when the weather heats up too.
Of course, the key to elevating your chunky loafers to the next level of stylishness is to consider proportion. If you’re wearing your chunky loafers with skirts, we recommend you go maxi or mini. A mini dress would be ideal for summer as the chunkiness of the shoe can look a little frumpy if you wear it with a midi dress or knee-length skirt (it’s giving history teacher, tbh…).
Likewise, when wearing chunky loafers with high-waisted trousers or boyfriend jeans, choose a style that either pools over the shoes (baggy jeans are excellent for this aesthetic) or a pair of trousers that finish on the ankle. Capri or mid-calf lengths can throw off the silhouette and make your outfit look unbalanced. On your top half, go for bomber, blazer or shacket… it’s your call. But remembering these little tips for skirts and trousers will help your chunky loafer ‘fits look street style worthy.
After more footwear content? Shop white trainers, the best summer sandals, fisherman sandals, work shoes and pool slides. Read more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton here or follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton.