Pietro Castellitto Takes the Lead for Gucci’s Iconic Loafer
The Italian multihyphenate brings a fresh perspective to Gucci’s legendary Horsebit 1953 loafer in a campaign that bridges heritage craftsmanship with contemporary style
A new face
In celebration of its iconic Horsebit 1953 loafer, Gucci has unveiled its latest campaign featuring Italian actor, screenwriter, and director Pietro Castellitto. The campaign, conceived by Creative Director Sabato De Sarno, captures Pietro in an intimate, creative space filled with books, music, and art—reflecting a natural evolution in the brand’s exploration of modern masculinity.
What sets this campaign apart from traditional fashion imagery is its portrayal of Pietro in a series of relaxed, candid portraits, showcasing the versatility of the classic loafer. From casual to refined looks, the photographs by Heji Shein demonstrate how the shoe’s timeless design remains relevant across different style contexts.
The Horsebit loafer’s significance goes beyond its aesthetic appeal. First introduced in 1953, when Gucci expanded into footwear, the loafer’s distinctive double-ring and bar hardware drew inspiration from the equestrian world. This detail has remained a constant through seven decades of fashion evolution, underscoring both the brand’s heritage and its enduring appeal.
Legacy in motion
Pietro follows in the footsteps of notable talents like Paul Mescal, Xiao Zhan, and Kingsley Ben-Adir, each of whom has brought their own interpretation to the classic shoe. His inclusion in this esteemed lineage of ambassadors further reinforces the loafer’s ability to adapt to changing times while maintaining its essential character.
With creative direction by Sabato and art direction by Riccardo Zanola, this campaign marks another chapter in the ongoing story of a design that has successfully balanced tradition with contemporary relevance for over 70 years.
