In T’s column 1 Piece, 10 Budgets, we share 10 perfect versions of an item in a range of prices. This time, we’re looking at loafers, which are defined by their low heels, lack of laces and, often, tassels or notched straps — into which wearers have long slipped pennies for good luck. After originating in the early 20th century, the style grew to become a men’s wardrobe staple. Now, more and more women’s wear designers are putting their spin on the shoes, giving them slimmer silhouettes and even jewelrylike adornments. Here are the versions that caught T market editor Angela Koh’s eye.
Zara offers an accessible entry point to the category with this classic round-toe loafer, rendered in brown leather and finished with a penny strap stretched across the vamp.
Synonymous with the American loafer, G.H. Bass introduced its Weejuns (short for Norwegians, as they were inspired by the footwear of Scandinavian fishermen) in 1936. This iteration features a “beefroll” seam, meaning the edges of its moccasin toe have been rolled and hand-stitched.
Banana Republic also borrowed from the moccasin for this streamlined take on a slip-on, as evidenced by its crinkled toe cap and soft leather lining.
The Montreal-based brand Black Suede Studio produces its footwear in small batches using responsibly sourced materials. This style is made out of a velvety oxblood leather and embellished with matching tassels fashioned from brushed suede.
Aeyde relies on family-run factories in Italy with generations’ worth of experience to craft its designs, including this cream-colored loafer with a square toe and kilted fringe detailing.
Founded in 1948, the New York label Herbert Levine was relaunched last year under the creative direction of Trevor Houston, formerly of the Row. This shoe, with a sensible block heel and a delicate gold chain, is part of his sophomore collection.
This Dries Van Noten loafer has the spirit of a classic but, thanks to its elongated square toe, crisp topstitching and glossy forest green hue, feels more modern than preppy.
The Japanese singer and sound artist Phew modeled these loafers on Miu Miu’s spring 2026 runway, which boosted interest in the style, characterized by a long silhouette and hand-waxed finish.
Made from box prestige calfskin — a particularly fine, smooth variety — this Loro Piana loafer has whipstitching at the front and a lace affixed with a tassel.
10. Dior, $1,550
Unveiled during Jonathan Anderson’s first show as the creative director of Dior, this pair is crafted from black and white lambskin and finished with gold medallions inspired by the 18th-century Rococo aesthetic used in the house’s original salon.
