All products featured on Vogue are independently selected by our editors. However, we may earn affiliate revenue on this article and commission when you buy something.
Crafting a piece of fashion that remains relevant and cool for decades to come is a sartorial white whale. But in 1953, Mr. Aldo Gucci managed to do so with his creation of the Gucci horsebit loafer. The son of founder Guccio Gucci was inspired by the moccasin silhouettes that he noticed many wearing during a trip to New York City. Upon returning to Italy, Gucci crafted a leather design that was topped off with a golden horsebit—a nod to the label’s adoration of the equestrian lifestyle.
Since then, the timeless shoe has become a go-to for the most stylish men and women. They were a mainstay in Jane Birkin’s wardrobe, especially during her stylish getaways to the South of France in the ’70s.
.jpeg)
Deal-making executives—like Jordan Belfort, who Leonardo DiCaprio portrayed in The Wolf of Wall Street—made them an unofficial part of their office uniform in the late ’80s and early ’90s.
.jpeg)
Fast forward to 2023, and the simple yet stunning shoe has become a wardrobe hero beloved by today’s It girls, from Kendall Jenner to Hailey Bieber to Katie Holmes. While writing this story, a couple of Vogue editors have walked past my desk wearing the celebrated loafer. I wouldn’t call it a coincidence, but a testament to the impeccable craftsmanship. You see, it’s not just the elegant silhouette that has captured the hearts of many. The attention to detail and unparalleled durability of Italian craftsmanship make them a smart investment in any closet.
.jpeg)
Over the years, Gucci’s loafer has been reimagined in the most spectacular ways by several of Gucci’s creative directors. Alessandro Michele got whimsical with a shearling-lined, backless design. While Tom Ford dabbled in exotic croc finishes. While there are many iterations, there’s one thing they all have in common: the seamless fusion of comfort and sophistication.
As the brand celebrates 70 years of leisurely elegance, now feels like as great a time as ever to invest in a pair for yourself (or perhaps a special guy in your life), by shopping our favorite picks, below.
