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The horsebit loafer is the one with the metal hardware across the vamp — here are 9 pairs.
My top pick: The bit detail is what stops a loafer looking plain. It is also the fastest way to make a flat shoe look expensive.
1. Classic Gold-Bit Loafer
Gold hardware on black or brown leather. Shop horsebit loafers women gold on Amazon →
2. Silver-Bit Loafer
Silver hardware for a cooler palette. Shop silver horsebit loafers women on Amazon →
3. Suede Horsebit Loafer
Suede upper with a metal bit. Shop suede horsebit loafers on Amazon →
4. Lug-Sole Horsebit
Bit hardware on a chunky sole. Shop horsebit lug sole loafers on Amazon →
5. Heeled Horsebit Loafer
A block heel with bit detailing. Shop heeled horsebit loafers women on Amazon →
6. Men’s Horsebit Loafer
The classic men’s cut. Shop horsebit loafers men on Amazon →
7. Backless Horsebit Mule
The open-back version. Shop horsebit mules women on Amazon →
8. Budget Horsebit Dupe
An affordable alternative under $60. Shop horsebit loafers dupe affordable on Amazon →
9. Metal Polish Cloth
A cloth to keep the hardware bright. Shop metal polish cloth jewelry on Amazon →
The bottom line
A gold-bit loafer in black leather is the classic. The backless mule version is the one that stretches furthest into warm weather.