Top 9+ Chic Ways to Style Loafers This Summer

From leather boat shoes to woven styles, loafers in the summer bring a sense of preppy polish that feels both timeless and refreshingly unexpected. Here are nine outfit ideas.

Loafers can be worn year-round, but they make an especially great summer shoe. For days when you want more coverage and support than a flip-flop, a pair of loafers is a comfortable and stylish choice. Plus, they come runway-approved, as they were spotted at Miu Miu, Prada, Gucci, Jil Sander, and more.

They look especially elegant during the summer months, whether they’re styled with tailored shorts, breezy poplin dresses, or midi skirts. They offer a refined yet relaxed alternative to sandals, going swiftly from a commute to cocktails after work. Think of them as your secret weapon for nailing that polished, pulled-together summer aesthetic.

At the top of our shopping list are minimalist styles from the Row and Tove, leather boat shoes from Loeffler Randall and Bally that nod to summer’s nautical vibes, and a sumptuous suede style from Alex Mill that we couldn’t get enough of for spring—and now summer too. Below, see nine easy ways to style loafers this summer.

The Croc-Embellished Loafer With a Tailored Bermuda Short

Make Tove’s croc-embellished loafers the centerpiece of all your sleek summer office looks. To play with proportion and color, style the shoes with the Frankie Shop’s tailored Bermuda shorts and a breezy butter-yellow shirt from Toteme. Proenza Schouler’s striped canvas tote is right on trend and will comfortably store your laptop and essentials during your daily commute.

The Classic Black Penny Loafer With a Striped Tee

Sport G.H. Bass’s black penny loafers with a playful mix of textures this summer for a classic and cool daytime look. Start with a striped tee from Staud and style with Loulou de Saison’s cute knitted shorts for an easy, unexpected combination. Layer it with a lightweight denim jacket from La Ligne for some laid-back ease, and finish with Khaite’s studded suede shoulder bag.

The Leather Boat Shoe With a Cherry-Red Tank Dress

Anchor your summer in-the-city look with a fresh twist on nautical style with Loeffler Randall’s leather boat shoes and a cherry-red tank dress from Loulou de Saison. Layer on a lightweight cropped trench for breezy mornings or unexpected rain showers. A striped raffia tote adds a playful maritime nod. It’s the kind of outfit that embodies a coastal cool style made for city sidewalks.

The Raffia Loafer With a White Poplin Maxi Skirt

Channel French-girl charm with Stuart Weitzman’s woven raffia loafers with a matching raffia basket bag. Style it with a long-line suit vest and a breezy poplin maxi skirt. For a splash of color, Lié Studio’s bold red resin necklace adds a sculptural pop to the look.

The Sumptuous Suede Style With a Printed Wrap Skirt

Ground all your summer looks with a pair of sumptuous suede loafers. They are unexpectedly luxe and perfect for day-to-night dressing. Style them with a sweet white eyelet tank from Staud and Dries Van Noten’s printed wrap skirt. Add a zebra-print clutch for a bold twist on neutrals and layer on a playful beaded necklace to dial up the fun. It’s a playful look to wear to a weekend brunch or a rooftop soirée.

The Loafer Mule With a Strapless LBD

Miu Miu’s suede loafer mules are not only one of summer’s most-wanted items, they can also seamlessly transition from the office to off-duty. Style the staple with Matteau’s breezy broderie anglaise midi dress, then layer on a crisp linen-poplin shirt—worn open or knotted at the waist. A cool cord necklace adds an artsy finish.

The Creamy White Loafer With a Striped Poplin Pant

Wearing white is essential during the summertime, whether it’s a white dress, pair of jeans, or loafers. Here, pair them with J.Crew’s breezy poplin pants and a structured linen collarless jacket from Alex Mill. Dragon Diffusion’s woven leather handbag adds artisanal texture, while Lizzie Fortunato’s gemstone necklace brings just the right hint of color and charm.

The Pistachio-Green Loafer With a Striped Midi Dress

Gucci’s pistachio-green loafers bring a pop of color that complements Cos’s nautical blue-and-white-striped dress. Layer on Massimo Dutti’s suede shacket, ideal for those summer days that are on the cooler side.

The Fashion-Editor Favorite With a Capri Pant

When Bally’s leather boat shoes first came onto the scene, they quickly became a favorite among fashion editors (including Bazaar’s accessories director, Miguel Enamorado). Follow suit and sport yours with a pair of black capri pants. Style them with a gray lightweight cashmere cardigan for a chic look you can wear to the park or while meeting up with friends.