Emma Chamberlain solidified loafers as the unlikely shoe of the summer in her viral TikTok audio explaining her ideal hot weather outfit: “long skirt, scrunched-up socks, a pair of loafers, and then a basic tanktop.” All of June, my TikTok For You page was populated with people dressed in their versions of this formula, set to Chamberlain’s narration. Loafers prove their timelessness in this seasonal uniform, but their popularity supersedes this TikTok trend. Walk down any street in the East Village and you’ll see plenty amongst the cowboy boots, Adidas Sambas, and mary jane ballet flats adorning New York’s coolest.
Though Chamberlain’s formula is excellent for Autumn—simply add a jacket or throw on a sweater—ahead are a few more cold-weather-friendly outfit equations to help you reintroduce the seasonless staple into your daily rotation.
Emerald Blazer + Wide Leg Pants + Cropped Tank Top
Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Wide-leg pants and a well-tailored blazer are a perennially stylish combination that will make you feel classy in any setting. Add a print if you want to get a little funky, but we love this sophisticated cream and emerald pairing with a healed loafer.
Trench Coat + Knee-length Dress + Blue Socks
Photo: Vanni Bassetti/Getty Images
Pairing blue socks with loafers is an excellent way to add a touch of whimsy without appearing too girlish. The danger with loafers and white socks—a very cute, near-ubiquitous combination—is looking a little school-girl. There’s nothing wrong with that, but blue socks and a trench is an excellent, less-expected alternative.
Straight Leg Jeans + Fitted Sweater + Oversized Leather Jacket
Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
While this is a classic combination you can probably put together with items already in your closet, there are a few details that really elevate this outfit and prove the importance of good styling. First, the fit of all the items is perfect—the clingy sweater balances the oversized jacket and the mid-rise straight-leg jean is ultra-flattering. Second, the square toe of the loafer creates a silhouette I can only describe as chic.
