Fashion people are ditching sandals for loafers and these are the pairs worth buying

Fashion people are ditching sandals for loafers and these are the pairs worth buying | Freelance Editor Published October 19, 2026 12:41pm Updated October 19, 2026 12:41pm I predict these high street loafers will sell out before winter. (Picture: Metro/Getty) Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Now that autumn has arrived, so has the opportunity to reset your wardrobe this September. You don’t need to rush out and replace everything you already own, but a few tweaks can update your closet for changing temperatures. Right now, we’re talking about shoes, more specifically, swapping out strappy sandals for a pair of loafers that are just as stylish but a lot more practical. Whether you’re navigating a morning commute that’s suddenly got a lot colder, or trying to find a pair of shoes that will go with your work wardrobe and your weekend plans, loafers are a timeless shoe and a quick fix to looking more put together. This autumn, the high street is leaning into classic colour collections of burgundy, chocolate brown, and patent black, which are neutral shades that can easily be worn with jeans or trousers. However, there are also animal-print styles in leopard and zebra, plus backless designs for slipping on and off (with no blisters in sight). In our roundup, you’ll find all our favourite brands, from M&S and River Island to Mango and H&M, no matter what your budget or personal style needs. Whether you’re building a capsule wardrobe for the season ahead or simply after one great new pair to see you through to spring, here’s our edit to add to your basket. The most stylish loafers to shop this autumn Tu Dark Brown Suede Swung Toe Loafers Great style doesn't have to break the bank, especially with how good Tu Clothing has been recently. These dark brown suede loafers scream autumn, and we’ll be wearing them with jeans and a chunky knit well into winter and spring, too. Buy now for £32 M&S Suede Loafers A wardrobe staple done right, these suede loafers from M&S tick every box for autumn dressing. The slip-on design makes them easy to wear, while the soft suede will keep them firmly on your foot without sliding around. Timeless and versatile, they'll work just as hard with your work wardrobe as they will with your favourite denim. Buy Now for £56 & Other Stories Leather Penny Loafers A bit more of an investment piece, these penny loafers from & Other Stories are the definition of understated luxury. They're the kind of shoe that only gets better and softer with age and can be paired with everything from suits to slip skirts. Buy Now for £119 River Island Brown Leopard Print Backless Ruched Loafers If you love a bit of leopard print, these backless loafers from River Island are an instant winner. The mule-style back makes them simple to slip on and off, while the animal print adds colour to even the most neutral of wardrobes. At just under £30, they're an affordable way to try the trend. Buy Now for £29 Dune Faux Shearling Lined Backless Mule Suede Designed with colder mornings in mind, these suede mule loafers from Dune London have a cosy faux shearling lining that peeks out. The backless silhouette makes them a slightly more formal slipper, but with all the same plush comfort. Buy Now for £109 Steve Madden Adison-A Loafer in Print For those who like their footwear bold, these loafers from Steve Madden deliver with an on-trend zebra print, while the chunky sole adds a contemporary edge and extra height. They’re a great option if you want your shoes to do the talking this season, without sacrificing comfort. Buy Now for £130 Adidas Handball Spezial Loafers Leopard Adidas has cleverly designed a loafer with a sportswear look, and this pair blends the convenience of a slip-on shoe with the timelessness of leopard-print loafers. Currently reduced from £100, it's the perfect moment to snap up a pair before they inevitably sell out. Buy now for £70 (was £100) Mango Gathered Leather Loafers Mango's leather loafers bring a softer update to the classic shape, with ruched detailing across. Made from durable leather, they stand the test of time and only get better the longer you have them. Buy Now for £89.99 This pair are the ultimate budget buy for anyone building an autumn shoe rotation. Complete with a classic silhouette that works with everything, they're an easy way to enjoy the loafer trend without spending a fortune. Buy Now for £27.99 Aldo Ybilide Women's Loafers Another design that won’t date is this pair from Aldo, which combines rich brown tones with a clean, classic finish that pairs with everything from tailored trousers to relaxed denim. You can’t go wrong with them. Buy Now for £99 Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Share your views in the comments below Arrow MORE: The best suede jackets, skirts, bags and shoes to shop for autumn Arrow MORE: Best white shoes for women to shop now, from trainers to kitten heels Arrow MORE: The best wide calf boots for women to shop this winter from M&S, H&M and River Island Ask Metro Use AI to go deeper into the stories you care about – powered by Metro and trusted publications. Puzzles Newsletter Get your favourite puzzles when they are ready to play on the website sent directly to you every day and track your daily streak!