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The penny loafer has outlasted every trend since the 1930s — here are 10 pairs worth the money.
My top pick: A well-made penny loafer is one of the few shoes you can genuinely buy once. The design has not needed updating in ninety years.
1. Classic Black Penny
The formal end of the penny loafer range. Shop black penny loafers women on Amazon →
2. Brown Leather Penny
The most versatile everyday colour. Shop brown penny loafers women on Amazon →
3. Burgundy Penny Loafer
Oxblood for autumn depth. Shop burgundy penny loafers on Amazon →
4. Suede Penny Loafer
Softer texture, more casual register. Shop suede penny loafers women on Amazon →
5. Lug-Sole Penny
A chunky sole under a traditional upper. Shop lug sole penny loafers on Amazon →
6. Women’s Slim Penny
A narrower last cut for women. Shop penny loafers women slim on Amazon →
7. Men’s Penny Loafer
A classic men’s cut in calf leather. Shop penny loafers men leather on Amazon →
8. Leather-Sole Penny
A leather sole for a dressier finish. Shop leather sole loafers on Amazon →
9. Rubber-Sole Penny
A rubber sole for wet-weather practicality. Shop rubber sole penny loafers on Amazon →
10. Budget Penny Loafer
An affordable pair under $70. Shop affordable penny loafers on Amazon →
The bottom line
Brown leather is the most useful penny loafer colour. A rubber sole is the practical choice for autumn; leather soles look better and last less long in the rain.