Chunky loafers: the shoe of autumn 2026 (and how to wear them)

Mocassini chunky: la scarpa dell'autunno 2026 (e come portarli)

Trends · Autumn 2026

There’s one shoe returning to the center of every look this autumn: the loafer. But not in the slim version of the past: this season calls for a high, substantial sole - the chunky loafer. A piece that combines college polish with a bold attitude, already among the fastest-growing requests in the boutique.

Why the chunky loafer is back now

After years of sneakers and ballet flats, we’re seeing a shoe return to the boutique that knows how to be comfortable and elegant at the same time. The raised sole adds character and elongates the silhouette, while the leather upper retains its timelessly polished look. Find it among women's loafers and men's loafers, and wear it with tailored trousers or jeans.

The styles to know

  • The penny loafer. The one with the strap across the vamp, the most classic style: with a platform sole, it instantly gains attitude.
  • The horsebit loafer. The metal detail that evokes college style and a slightly retro elegance.
  • The tassel loafer. Elegant and slightly dandy, for those who love details.
  • The chunky loafer with a lug sole. The boldest style, the one that breaks up the most feminine outfits.

How to style chunky loafers

The beauty of this shoe is that it plays with contrast: the softer the rest of the outfit, the more character it adds.

  • With visible socks. The trend-forward detail: a ribbed or chunky wool sock peeking out above the shoe gives the look a modern feel.
  • With a skirt or dress. A fluid dress and a sturdy loafer among the women's shoes: feminine on top, decisive below.
  • With Jeans. Straight-leg or cropped Jeans to show the ankle: simple and always right.
  • In a tailored look. With pleated trousers and a matching sock, a modern touch for the men's wardrobe too.
The softer the rest of the outfit, the more character the chunky loafer brings. It's all about contrast.

The boutique's advice

If you choose just one pair, go for a black or dark brown leather loafer with a sole that is not too exaggerated: it goes with everything and works across seasons. New leather should be allowed to soften during the first few days, perhaps with a slightly thick sock, and treated with a specific conditioner. Cared for this way, it lasts for years and improves with wear.

Frequently asked questions

How do you style chunky loafers?
They work best through contrast: with a skirt or fluid dress for a feminine, decisive effect, or with straight-leg Jeans and a visible sock, the season's trend detail. For an elegant look, wear them with tailored trousers and a matching sock.
Are loafers in fashion in 2026?
Yes, loafers are among the key shoes for autumn winter 2026, especially in the chunky version with a thick sole. They are comfortable and elegant, replacing sneakers in many everyday looks.
What socks do you wear with loafers?
The trend calls for visible socks, ribbed or chunky wool, peeking above the shoe. For a cleaner look, opt for a thin knee-high sock in a shade matching the trousers.
How do you soften the leather of a new loafer?
Wear it with a slightly thick sock for the first few days to help it adapt to your foot, and treat the leather with a specific conditioner. Leather naturally gives, and the shoe becomes increasingly comfortable.
VCThe Vittorio Citro Boutique editorial team - a luxury multibrand boutique in Roccapiemonte, backed by a family with roots in fashion since 1917.

At the opposite end of the chunky style is the slim, classic loafer: Barrett shoes, handcrafted since 1917, with a stitched leather sole.

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