This "Boring" 2020 Shoe Trend Has It All—It's Chic, Polished, and Comfy

by Bobby Schuessler

We’ve seen a rise in the fashion crowd’s adoration for loafers over the past couple of years. Sure, this classic shoe silhouette could be deemed as “boring” by shoe standards next to more obvious flashy silhouettes like clunky sneakers and statement mules. But with the range of modern interpretations out there lately, it's no wonder this traditional shoe style has been a hit among style setters.

Of course there are the wildly popular backless silhouettes, but loafers are getting an elevated twist (literally) for 2020 with the addition of block heels, chunkier soles, and luxe-feeling materials like mock-croc. The upgraded elements essentially make these new-wave loafers one of the only footwear styles that will matter next year thanks to their chic, polished, and more comfortable nature.

To showcase the trend further and prove why you may need to just add the staple into your rotation, we rounded up how some of the biggest runway heavy-hitters from Prada to Fendi reimagined the loafer in their S/S 20 collections. We’re also highlighting how some of the coolest fashion people are already wearing modern loafers, complete with shopping inspiration below. Keep scrolling to enhance your 2020 shoe wardrobe.

On the runway:

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Pietro D'aprano/Getty Images

The chunky heel and high-shine finish are what makes these Prada loafers stand out.

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Peter White/Getty Images

Louis Vuitton’s striking reimagined loafers are particularly elegant with the architectural heel and eccentric pattern.

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Victor Virgile/Getty Images

The slingback detail feels especially forward on these Fendi heeled loafers.

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Peter White/Getty Images

Tory Burch proves that it’s all about the details with the metallic hardware, intricate print, and color-blocked design.

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Victor Virgile/Getty Images

While slightly more subtle, this sleek pair of loafers from Lacoste actually feels quite current with the addition of the kitten block heel.

On the street:

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Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

Style Tip: You can’t deny the power of a gorgeous pair of neutral loafers with a monochromatic fit like this featuring trousers, a blouse, and maxi coat for an effortless and posh silhouette.

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Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images

Style Tip: Coordinate a multicolored pair of loafers with a dress and jacket featuring similar hues to stand out.

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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Style Tip: While the taller heeled loafers are the key silhouette, the fancy loafer look can also be achieved in a flatter iteration if you choose a pair that has an interesting detail like the glossier finish here. These look on point with jeans and a blazer for a classic vibe.

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Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images

Style Tip: Pointed heeled loafers bring an extra level of elegance to a skirt-suit set.

Best loafers for women with leather jacket

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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Style Tip: A pair of loafers with a very slight heel will keep you comfortable while looking impossibly chic with cropped jeans, an animal-print sweater, and a moto jacket.

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Melodie Jeng/Getty Images

Style Tip: Push the boundaries by wearing black heeled loafers with white socks, complete with colorful separates.

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