You’ve definitely seen it on everyone from jet-setters to Hollywood icons, but do you know the story behind the now-iconic Gucci horsebit loafer? Here’s how it breaks down.

1921: Gucci is founded in Florence, Italy. Part of its DNA? Equestrian imagery symbolizing the wealth Guccio Gucci observed while employed at London’s Savoy hotel just after WWI.

1953: Guccio Gucci’s son Aldo expands the company to include footwear. The soon-to-be iconic loafer, with its signature double ring and bar, is born.

1960s and 70s: Hollywood gets on board. Spot the loafer on everyone from Peter Sellers in 1966 to Francis Ford Coppola in 1970.

1985: The Costume Institute at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art (call it the shoe hall of fame) welcomes the loafer into its collection.

Today: The iconic shoe is still handcrafted start to finish by artisans working in a single workshop in Florence – wearing leather aprons over lab coats, no less. Start collecting now, then wear and resole for years to come.

Pick out your first pair. Our Men’s Luxe Shoes: The Gucci Horsebit Loafer & More Boutique opens Friday, May 23, at 11AM ET.

By Chrissy Makkas, Staff Writer

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