The History Of The Gucci Horsebit: Past & Present

When we think about what’s most iconic about the House of Gucci, an endless list of pieces, collections and runway moments come to mind. But the Horsebit is front and centre, an integral part of the Gucci DNA earmarked on the fashion history books forever. This hero House code first debuted in 1953 and has seamlessly transcended decades and seasons, its popularity unwavering throughout ever-changing trends. The Horsebit can speak many sartorial languages, translating timeless sophistication across an eclectic mix of cultures, generations, tastes and ensembles.

A miniature take on a horse’s bridle, this instantly recognizable emblem honours Guccio Gucci’s love of the equestrian lifestyle. Further proof that the Italian heritage icon really can do it all - both “Guccifying” your wardrobe with a statement-making look, or taking a more pared-back approach with a subtle nod to the House’s world-renowned nonchalant luxury. A rotation of Gucci isn’t complete without something from the Horsebit collection so, if you haven't already, invest in a piece now. You’ll be riding high.

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The Gucci Horsebit Loafer

The obvious place to start in the Horsebit timeline is with the original It-shoe, the Horsebit loafer. Spanning both womenswear and menswear collections, this relaxed but elegant staple is the perfect answer to footwear dilemmas, when you just want a dressy loafer to add comfortable yet chic style to on or off-duty ensembles. You’ll be following in the footsteps of forever style muses Sophia Loren, Jane Birkin, Jackie Kennedy and Paul Mescal (swoon) with these on your feet.

The beauty of the Horsebit Leather Loafers, they offer endless styling opportunities, adding a final flourish of polish to an office ensemble, or elevating a double denim look on the weekend. We’ll be nodding to the Office Siren trend in and out of work, wearing an all-over homage to the brand, pairing our loafers with the matching cashmere Horsebit Cardigan, G-Print Pencil Skirt and GG Print Tights from the ready-to-wear collection.

The Gucci Horsebit Chain Bag

Not forgetting a bag, of course. The Horsebit Chain Bag isn’t “just” a bag, it’s a part of fashion history; a forever homage to the iconic TOM FORD era of Gucci which will never be forgotten. With Sabato De Samo at the helm, the Horsebit was given a glamorous and daring blown-up revival for Winter 2003, signalling a new chapter for the House. A symbol of both the past and present eras, this bag has many guises - as a clutch, top handle or cross body - and is just as good at completing a streetwear ensemble or jeans-and-a-tee look as a metallic dress.

The Gucci Horsebit 1955

While the Chain Bag is an icon, it’s not the OG Horsebit handbag. In 1955, the emblem was first showcased on a toteable. When Alessandro Michele became creative director, he dipped into the archives, giving this demure top-handle style a new lease of life, christening it the Horsebit 1955 and bringing the heritage hardware into the modern day. Guaranteed to never lose its timeless allure, this structured box bag comes in different sizes to suit all occasions and needs. Equal parts elegant and practical, we love the Horsebit 1955 Mini Shoulder Bag for its wear-with-anything versatility to carry from daytime until after-dark, paired with a timeless trench and sleek sandals.

Saddle up, it’s going to be a very stylish ride.

Words by Sophy Davis Russell