How to Wear Chunky Loafers from Newbella This Summer & Fall

Let’s talk about how to wear chunky loafers. Because this style’s been trending for long enough that it’s edging towards classic status. And that means we can all invest in a pair, knowing they’ll be wearable for seasons to come.

Thick-soled loafers — aka platform loafers — are surprisingly versatile. Dressed up, loafers are a chic and practical alternative to heels. Dressed down, they easily upgrade your casual rotation. Somewhere in the middle, loafers also make for an outstanding work shoe.

Wearing loafers outside work

It’s not hard to add chunky loafers to your workwear rotation. These shoes look amazing underneath ankle pants, pencil skirts, sheath dresses, blazers, trench coats, straight-leg dark wash jeans, crisp button down tops, and other career favorites.

But how about styling chunky loafers for other occasions? That’s our topic for today. I partnered with Newbella for this post, who provided the shoes. Newbella has a huge selection of chic shoe styles at affordable prices.

My mission? Style a range of chunky loafer outfits with clothes I already had in my closet. Read on to see what I came up with.

1. Floral midi  

Not every loafer is reminiscent of the 1980s Dr. Martens trend. Take this khaki loafer as an example. It blends a white chunky sole with a loafer-esque chain detail and a soft, stretchy outer construction. It’s a sneaker and loafer in one — as well as a nice summer alternative to the sandal or canvas shoe.

If a dark, luggy shoe is too punk-rock for you, this style may be a better fit for your wardrobe.

Try styling a soft-sided loafer with a floral midi skirt and t-shirt or cami. If the shoe has a chain detail like this one, the floral balances the metal nicely.

2. Shorts and a t-shirt   

You could also wear this shoe with shorts and a t-shirt. It’s definitely a step up from flip-flops or your cross-trainers. I chose a boxy crop top and white denim shorts, but you could go for your favorite graphic t-shirt and distressed denim bottoms.

3. Pleated maxi and fitted tank  

Here’s a combo to adore: pleated skirt, snug top, and denim jacket, anchored by patent brown loafers. This shoe has all the features you’d expect, including a thick sole, lighter stitching, bow and fringe detail, plus a plaid panel across the vamp.

Those masculine details look amazing with my long pleated, slightly metallic skirt from Chicwish. On top, I added an old black tank top and a denim jacket I’ve had for decades. Easy peazy.  

4. Tunic, cropped skinnies, and socks x 2

For a breezier look, try teaming a floaty tunic with cropped skinnies. Add ankle socks and loafers and you’re good to go.

This combo works without socks too. Feel free to mix things up with a boxier jean style or different washes!

5. Mom jeans and cropped cardi        

I picked up these relaxed fit, distressed mom jeans at Kohl’s last winter for $15. I like to balance out their lack of shape with a shorter, brighter top.

The loafers work into this mix perfectly. This pair is a red-brown color with a thick black sole, plus fringe and a bit design across the throat.

6. Pull-on pencil skirt and soft tank

Try this look for a new take on a casual date night. A pull-on pencil skirt with a loose (and sexy) tank, tucked in, finished with chunky loafers.  

7. Boyfriend jeans and sweater vest

A knit top and boyfriend jeans make for an easy, but polished look — which is made even better by the addition of statement loafers. This is my favorite outfit of the bunch.

How to wear chunky loafers: Dos and don’ts

I made these outfits out of pieces I had on hand. My hope is that you can do the same. Use the dos and don’ts below to guide your choices.

Do show your ankles.

The chunky loafer is a bulky shoe. Most shapes benefit from showing bare or nearly bare ankles above that big shoe. It keeps you from looking bulky from hip to foot.  

Do wear denim.

Nearly any wash or style of denim goes well with chunky loafers. Try denim shorts, capris, or skirts. As long as the hemline is above your ankle, you can opt for slim or wide legs.

Do balance the masculine and feminine.

Experiment pairing masculine loafers with girly design elements, such as floral patterns, dainty jewelry, pleats, lace, and scalloped hems.

Don’t be afraid to experiment.

Invite a friend over and have fun trying on clothes from your own closet with your new chunky loafers. You’ll likely be surprised at how many outfits you can create.

Don’t make too many statements.

Platform loafers are statement shoes. As such, they look most stylish when surrounded by more muted pieces. Choose soft patterns, neutrals, and subtle shapes to wear with your loafers. That way, you’re not making too many statements at the same time.

Newbella coupon code

Inspired to try styling your own pair of loafers? Use the coupon code BUDGET to save 18% off your order.

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