FASHION

Pony hair loafers are spring's biggest shoe trend – this £50 ASOS pair is my fave

The loafer upgrade you need.

20 February 2026

Edward Berthelot

I’ll admit that I was a little slow on my uptake of the loafer trend — the pairing of leather plimsoles and white ankle socks throwing me back to my awkward school days. But, (faux) pony hair loafers are sweeping the runway, and they're a take on the style I've swiftly stepped behind. Because is there an easier way to add some texture to our spring uniform of barrel jeans and a white tee? I'd argue not.

Shop the trend:

Image may contain: Clothing, Footwear, Sandal, Shoe, Sneaker, and High Heel

It was The Row, with its Fall 2025 collection, who kickstarted the trend — although we were all obsessing over chocolate suede chunky loafers at that point. Now we've got comfortable styling our preppy pumps? It's only right that we go a little more avant-garde, experimenting with new textures and prints, courtesy of pony or calf hair loafers.

My best in show? This £50 ASOS pair — inspired by a less-modestly priced design, those in-the-know will recognise — finished with an apron toe and a not-at-all subtle zebra print. And while not an option for our vegan fashion fans, the leather upper should mean these see you through many a morning commute.

ASOS DESIGN Melva Premium Clean Round Toe Loafers

£50

ASOS

If zebra's not your vibe — my friends and colleagues know I'll always be loyal to animal print — then the high street has delivered plenty of other options.

When it comes to how to wear loafers, I'm taking inspo from Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, the designers of The Row's 2025 collection. They opted for an exaggerated horseshoe chino trouser, a butter yellow wool coat and a handbag in a contrasting colour and texture — tan leather and with plenty of room for my daily essentials.

Image may contain Accessories Bag Handbag Tote Bag Clothing Coat and Purse

The fashion set is following suit, opting for baggier silhouettes and texture contrasts, with straight leg jeans or corduroy trousers, paired with suede jackets for an effortless, ‘I threw this together’ look. But as we head into spring, I'm also considering investing in an A-line midi skirt or poplin culottes to give my sock-shoe combo its moment.

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Talking of, you're safe to stick a white ankle sock when calling on what I'm labelling as the best loafers for spring '26. Although, a knitted option that leans into Claudia Winkleman's trademark country-core vibe would work too.

Simply put, if you're flirting with the idea of dopamine dressing — clashing prints, textures and patterns, or drenching yourself in colour to incite a serotonin boost — this could be the easy way to access both the pony hair loafer and cow-print trend.