Gucci’s Horsebit 1953 loafer is back in the spotlight, and this time, Pietro Castellitto steps into its storied shoes. Directed by Sabato De Sarno, the new campaign continues Gucci’s evolution of an icon—one that has defined the House’s heritage since it first dropped. The Italian actor, screenwriter, and director is the latest in a line of leading men—following Paul Mescal, Xiao Zhan, and Kingsley Ben-Adir—each adding their own twist to Gucci’s signature shoe.
Set against a backdrop of books, records, and art, Castellitto gives a coolly understated take on contemporary masculinity. He moves between a series of looks that bridge the casual and the refined, but it’s the Horsebit 1953 loafer that stays constant—grounding every outfit, anchoring every vibe. The campaign paints Castellitto as more than just a wearer; he’s an interpreter of the loafer’s timeless allure. Under De Sarno’s direction, the shoe becomes more than an accessory—it’s a statement, a quiet nod to Gucci’s unwavering DNA.
Since its debut, the Horsebit loafer has transcended trends, becoming a true cultural touchstone. Born in 1953 when Gucci first ventured into footwear, it spoke to a different kind of elegance: part casual, part sensual, with an unmistakably sporty flair. Inspired by the equestrian world, the iconic double ring and bar design quickly became a lasting symbol—an emblem of effortless luxury. Through the years, legends like Francis Ford Coppola, Jodie Foster, Alain Delon, and modern icons like Dakota Johnson and Mark Ronson have made it their own.
In this latest campaign, the Gucci Horsebit 1953 loafer once again reasserts itself as a timeless element of the House’s vision—a vision that stays grounded in craftsmanship while looking to the future. Castellitto’s take is just the latest chapter, reminding us that the loafer isn’t just a classic—it’s forever part of the now.
