Loafers Are the Power-Woman Shoe
Meet the Power-Woman Shoe That Isn't Ballet Flats or Heels
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Heels make you look (and feel) taller, stand straighter, and walk with confidence, so it's clear why they've always been a power-woman favorite. The downside, however, is that a four-inch pump isn't the comfiest choice when you're standing for presentations, and for ladies who hate wearing heels, you'll want a better alternative for the office. So when we had the chance to chat with Rati Levesque, chief merchant at The RealReal, we had to pick her brain on shoes and trends. We wanted to know: what's her shoe pick for the modern working woman?
To our delight, she said, "If you love the comfort of the block heel though and want an alternative for the office, I would suggest classic loafers. They're always timeless, and thanks to Gucci, they're also cool again."
Since the style catapulted back to popularity, there have been many variations of the classic, from patent leather to velvet finishes, in backless silhouettes, and in a range of rich colors. Thanks to these small updates to an already timeless shoe, the loafer still has a spot in our closets now and into 2019. It's in the same league as ballet flats and comfier than stiletto heels, making it an instant must have for power women. You likely own a pair already, but if you don't, you'll want to shop the options ahead.
— Additional reporting by Hannah Weil McKinley
Gucci Princetown Loafer Mule
You'll never regret investing in this classic Gucci Princetown Loafer Mule ($680).
Halogen Emilia Loafers
The patent on these Halogen Emilia Loafers ($100) puts a peppy twist on a staple silhouette.
Madewell The Elinor Loafer
This Madewell The Elinor Loafer ($158) is an essential style that might just become your everyday shoe.
Madewell The Frances Genuine Calf Hair Loafer
As far as we're concerned, leopard is practically a neutral, so you'll get plenty of wear out of these Madewell Frances Calf Hair Loafers ($158).
J.Crew Academy Penny Loafer
For a polished pair of loafers for the office, look no further than these J.Crew Academy Penny Loafers ($178).
Schutz D'Ana Knotted Loafer Mule
One part polish, one part party, these Schutz D'Ana Knotted Loafer Mules ($102) are the subtle statement shoes you've been missing.
Tory Burch Antonia Monogram Loafer
Tory Burch's Antonia Monogram Loafer ($298) is a ladylike take we love.
Kate Spade New York Genevieve Loafer
The Kate Spade New York Genevieve Loafer ($198) is fresh, chic, and easy to wear.
Paige Eden Loafer Mule
Upgrade your weekend kicks with these Paige Eden Loafers ($275) in a covetable snake print.
Veronica Beard Griffin Pointy Toe Loafer
Everyone needs a great basic black shoe, and this Veronica Beard Griffin Pointy Toe Loafer ($350) is it.
Loeffler Randall Beatrix Penny Loafer
We're all for the subtle details like the scalloping and croc finish on these Loeffler Randall Beatrix Penny Loafers ($395).
Coach Fiona Loafer Mule
The embellishments on this Coach Fiona Loafer Mule ($150) mean it's easy to wear day to night.
Isabel Marant Feenie Studded Convertible Loafer
Isabel Marant's Feenie Studded Convertible Loafers ($665) would make a perfect addition to any cool-girl wardrobe.
Katy Perry Loafer
Alexander Wang Grommet Flat
For the girl who never thought she might be a loafer girl, Alexander Wang's Grommet Flat ($650) is here to convince you otherwise.
Alice + Olivia Madalyn Loafer Mule
Give your look a gilded touch with these Alice + Olivia Madalyn Loafers ($395).
Jeffrey Campbell Jesse III Loafers
Embrace the classics with this pair of Jeffrey Campbell Jesse III Loafers ($130).
Vince Damris Loafers
These Vince Damris Loafers ($295) are minimalist with high-impact details.
Aquazzura Purist Mocassins
The sparkly Aquazzura Purist Mocassins ($725) will take you from holiday party season and beyond — and bring a smile to your face every time you slip them on.
Sam Edelman Linnie Mules
We can't get enough of the plaid print on these Sam Edelman Linnie Mules ($120).
Freda Salvador The Light Loafers
These Freda Salvador The Light Loafers ($395) offer the classic loafer body with cool hardware, so you can be sure your loafers won't look like the rest.
Forever 21 Faux Leather Loafer Mules
Amp up your outfits with a chic pair of affordable white Forever 21 Faux Leather Loafer Mules ($25).
Zara Faux Crocodile Loafers
These Zara Faux Crocodile Loafers ($50) are an affordable spin on a Fall staple with a luxe-looking finish.
H&M Loafers
Everlane Modern Loafer
These beloved Everlane Modern Loafers ($168) come in a range of cool colors, though we're partial to the cherry red.
