Queen Letizia just proved that the sensible, comfy loafer is fit for royalty, too. Shop the fall-perfect shoe that’s blowing up in Google Trends searches from Coach, Madewell, J.Crew, and more, and see why so many celebrities are wearing loafers right now.

Everyone’s been spotted in it.

If at any time in the last few weeks, you’ve found yourself searching for loafers on the internet, you’re not alone. According to Google Trends, searches for the sensible comfort shoe are at an all-time high (!!), which means more shoppers than ever are a) inquiring about the style b) buying a pair or c) both. 

Regardless of which side of the loafer debate you fall—it’s a divisive shoe people either love or hate—its foothold on the fashion world is undeniable. So many celebs have been wearing the style, and now, royalty is on board, too! Queen Letizia of Spain is the latest to dress up her gray two-piece suit with a chunky, patent-leather pair that could convince even the most loafer-adverse to slip into it.

7 Comfy Leather Loafers for Fall

• Thursday Boots Penny Loafer, $150
• Coach Leah Patent-Leather Loafer, $195
• Open Edit Collier Penny Loafer, $63 (Originally $90)
• G.H.Bass Lianna Super Bit Weejuns Penny Loafer, $195
• J.Crew Winona Penny Loafer, $137 (Originally $198)
• Madewell the Grayson Penny Loafer, $134 (Originally $168)
• Quince Italian Leather Lug-Sole Loafer, $90

The royal stepped out for an event on World Mental Health Day 2024, opting for the aforementioned two-piece for her appearance. She paired a gray, double-breasted blazer that had contrasting black buttons with matching wide-leg trousers. A black lacey cami peeked out from underneath her jacket, while patent leather loafers were the grounding element that gave the look a cool touch—cool because they’re a bit more low-key than heels. Queen Letizia’s footwear of choice had a chunky sole and patent-leather exterior that added some edge. 

Loafers are a smart footwear choice for a slew of reasons. They obviously have a smart outlook to them—you might associate them with scholars or lawyers (like I do!). But don’t get it twisted: These days, loafers are a serious style shoe, and there’s no escaping them. Below, shop standout options you can wear on their own, with chunky socks, or anything in between. 

Thursday Boots Penny Loafer

$150 at Thursdayboots.com

Thursday knows how to make a good shoe. I swear by the brand’s sneakers and boots, but these loafers are quickly moving their way to the top of my wishlist. The price? Incredible for the quality. The design? A win. They’re made with soft, black patent leather, have a luxe-looking metal horsebit, as well as comfy, shock-absorbing insoles. These are loafers you’ll reach for again and again. 

Coach Leah Patent-Leather Loafer

$195 at Amazon

For a designer shoe that looks three-times more expensive than its actual price, look no further than these Coach babies. The extra-chunky sole adds an edgy touch to a timeless silhouette, while the shiny patent leather gives a rich finish. Pair these with jeans or trousers and you’re ready to hit both the boardroom and rooftop bar alike.

Open Edit Collier Penny Loafer

$90 $63 at Nordstrom

If you don’t want to break the bank, Nordstrom has this option from Open Edit that’s sure to make a great addition to your collection. Like Letizia’s, they have a chunky heel that slightly lifts you up, plus a seamed front and a glossy leather exterior. At $63, you can’t go wrong.

See more loafers below and snag a pair before everyone else does (given the sheer interest in Google!).

G.H.Bass Lianna Super Bit Weejuns Penny Loafer 

$195 at Nordstrom

J.Crew Winona Penny Loafer

$198 $137 at J. Crew

Madewell the Grayson Penny Loafer

$168 $134 at Madewell.com

Quince Italian Leather Lug-Sole Loafer

$90 at Quince.com