Style

|17 Apr 2023|3 mins

Are Chunky Loafers The New Chunky Boots?

Two of this season’s hottest shoe trends go toe-to-toe.

Hefty shoes have lived rent-free in our minds (and on our feet) for a few seasons now, but dad sneakers and tourist sandals are about to take a back seat. As A/W runway trends start to cross over into real life, fans of stompy footwear will have a new score to settle: chunky loafers vs chunky boots.
*Hero image via Getty Images

via Instagram @natysechan

Team Loafer

Women’s loafers had waxed and waned in popularity, until the likes of Miuccia Prada cemented the loafer’s status as THE shoe to be seen in. As each new season passes, loafers are getting bigger, bolder and – dare we say – better. This time ‘round, it’s all about loafers set on rugged lug soles, or weighed down with oversized hardware and exaggerated proportions. Brands like Tony Bianco have nailed the chunky loafer trend, with a suite of polished preppy pairs that channel androgynous cool. Wear yours with everything from straight-leg jeans to statement socks and a mini skirt for a contemporary spin on the classic look.

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via Getty Images

Team Boots

A pair of women’s boots is a must-have in any shoe collection, and this season sees the chunky boot take centre stage. Chunky soles in contrasting colours are the perfect way to refresh your autumn wardrobe, with popular fashion brand Stine Goya recreating their sleek leather ankle boots with pops of colour underfoot. Take the trend to bold new heights with a pair of platform boots. Spotted on everyone from Hailey Beiber to Dua Lipa, a towering platform boot brings a boost (literally) to any outfit. Looking for a boot that means business? Knee-high boots are always on-trend when easing into winter, and this season’s styles are set on rugged tractor soles for extra oomph. Use them to toughen up a botanical dress, or to temper the shortness of a thigh-skimming hem.

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via Instagram @yuliyacalister

Complete the look

Whether you’ve chosen your fighter or just bought one of each, now comes the question of what to wear with your chunky shoes. Chunky loafers paired with socks or stockings are a match made in trans-seasonal heaven, and are a great way to take your mini skirts into cooler temps too (don’t forget to slather on your favourite body moisturiser to keep bare skin happy). If your chunky boots are knee-high, team them with a shorter dress to get more style mileage, and layer on a trench coat to combat any chill in the air.

Keen on something more classic? Team your chunky shoes with your favourite pair of straight-leg jeans – ones that finish on or slightly above the ankle work best. An oversized shirt and equally oversized bag will echo the proportions of your chosen pair, while delicate gold jewellery will bring extra polish. And as we move into winter? Simply layer on your favourite knit, blazer or bomber for extra warmth.

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