FASHION /
FEATURES
March 20, 2015
Gucci's "Horsebit Loafers": Three Tastemakers Share Their Stories in Film
An Enduring Legacy of Emotion and Impact
The Allure of Gucci's Horsebit Loafers
Gucci's Horsebit Loafers. A timeless masterpiece that has captivated the hearts of stylish men worldwide for over half a century. When the "Bit Loafer" made its striking debut, discerning gentlemen everywhere were intoxicated by the emotion and impact brought by the small gleam of the bit. The enduring charm of the "Bit Loafer," undimmed by time—three individuals who witnessed its arrival share their respective coordinates in this film.
By Norio Osumi
Thirty-Five Years Ago, I Searched All Over Tokyo
A Vivid Memory of Finally Acquiring the Bit Loafers
I first discovered the Bit Loafer in 1974, while flipping through an American magazine. A snapshot of a businessman in a trad suit, wearing shoes with a metal buckle, striding down Madison Avenue in New York caught my eye. I immediately scoured places like Fussa and Ameyoko, known for selling imported goods, and finally purchased a pair at a foreign goods store in Ginza.
Unlike the American shoes I had worn until then, the leather was thick, yet the upper was soft, and the scent of the leather was wonderful. Most of all, I was moved by the snug, embracing fit. It's a moccasin construction, after all. I remember wearing them with a trad suit, just like the businessman in the snapshot.
The original Bit Loafer was chocolate brown. Thirty-five years later, my closet holds suede in moss green and burgundy, as well as white calfskin. They are versatile shoes that pair well with any outfit, but this season, perhaps I'll coordinate them with a double-breasted Signoria (Gucci suit).
The Bit Loafer: A Rare Classic with an Air of Seduction
Yasuto Kamoshita
United Arrows / Creative Director
The '70s-inspired long nose and Gucci's other icon, the 'Web' stripe. Kamoshita's Bit Loafers, purchased in the 2000s, possess an alluring presence. "My image is of George Peppard wearing them with a navy blazer. They are indispensable to my style, serving to add flair to any outfit."
Champagne Gold: Exuding Both Intellect and Radiance
Akira Sorimachi
Illustrator
Illustrator Akira Sorimachi, who brings the world of old-school dandies to the present day. These shoes, with their navy uppers and champagne gold bits, are essential for parties. "Their refined, slightly aloof expression stands out even in my collection, which primarily features British shoes."
