If you were to tell my private elementary school self that all the cool girls are now wearing loafers, I probably wouldn’t believe you.
As someone who wore loafers with a uniform until college, they have always been a little bit triggering. I can still smell the fresh leather of a brand new pair of G.H. Bass penny loafers just waiting to be broken in.
Now, what I once considered a back-to-school shoe is appearing on the feet of trendsetters everywhere, and poised to be a go-to in fall fashion. But it's a very specific loafer style. It's the ruched loafer.
Of course, loafers have always been a staple for both men and women. But this fall, ruched loafers are the style dominating both the runways and the city streets.
Ruched loafers are designed with pinched or gathered leather uppers along the toe box that creates a scrunched effect. They have a more lived-in feel than other sleeker styles, and look equally chic whether you wear them with or without socks.
G.H. Bass—the brand my mother bought me for so many years—even collaborated with Aritzia on a pair, anointing the style with a cool girl stamp of approval.
In the summer-to-fall transition, you can pair them with bermuda shorts and an oversized button down. Come fall, wear them with straight leg denim, a collegiate-inspired rugby shirt, and 80s-esque slouchy socks.
With everyone from Nordstrom to Zara and even Amazon carrying expensive-looking yet affordable suede and leather options, the ruched loafer trend is totally worth trying this fall. Shop our favorites below.
These low-profile loafers come in smooth or patent leather and suede options, each one as chic and versatile as the last. At just under $50, they're a great way to try out the ruched trend.
With their slim silhouette, you can rock these ruched loafers from the office to post-work drinks. Choose from black or brown.
Heritage brand G.H. Bass collaborated with Aritzia to create these ultra-chic penny loafers (which are on sale BTW).
Trendy yet timeless, these sleek loafers have scrunched uppers and vintage style brass details. Choose from three colors.
The mule loafer craze of 2015 has returned, and these backless penny loafers prove it. Prefer white? Try these.
A small chunky heel adds a bit height in this preppy and polished pick that comes in both suede and textured faux leather options.
Inspired by traditional driving loafers, these streamlined loafers with a gathered toe deliver an old money feel at a reasonable price.
From patent leather croc to ostrich feather texture, this contemporary take on the classic shoe is a versatile winner.
With their flexible rubber soles and stretchy backs, these deconstructed penny loafers are effortlessly laidback yet still sophisticated.
These loafer mules are the perfect thing to slide on as you're running out the door. Apart from patent leather croc and suede, they also come in a sherpa-lined option perfect for cozy fall days.
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