Fact: These Timeless Flat Shoes Are the Smartest Investment I've Ever Made

Gucci loafers have become a luxury capsule wardrobe staple loved by fashion people, influencers and celebrities alike. In fact, we can pinpoint the moment their status as a modern classic began to skyrocket to September 2014, during which time they became the unofficial uniform of fashion month. They've been the most coveted designer accessory ever since. However, what you might not have realised is that the Gucci loafer is actually 70 years old this year, and has been a mainstay in the wardrobes of those in the know since its inception.

The History of the Gucci Loafer:

After World War I, the man who would go on to create one of the world’s foremost luxury brands, Guccio Gucci, was working at The Savoy in London. During his time at the establishment, it soon became apparent to him how important equestrianism was to those in the English aristocracy—the racing, the polo, how their lives seemed to revolve around it. When he launched his own namesake leather goods business, he already knew the lucrative potential designing pieces with equestrianism in mind could hold.

French actress and style icon Brigitte Bardot wears her Gucci loafers with knee-high socks, cropped white jeans and a thin-knit jumper circa 1965.

Fast-forward to 1953 when his son, Aldo, launched the Gucci loafer—a simple leather shoe embellished with a metal horse bit. It wasn’t long before the shoe was granted the jet-set seal of approval. In the '60s and '70s, it became a go-to shoe for style icons Brigitte Bardot and Jane Birkin. If you’re an avid Who What Wear UK reader, you’ll know fashion circles don’t come more esteemed than that.

French star and muse Jane Birkin wears her Gucci loafers with white flares and a lace crop top while attending Cannes Film Festival with her partner Serge Gainsbourg in 1970.

A young Jodie Foster wears her Gucci loafers with turn-up jeans, a printed tee and a baker boy cap in 1976.

Gucci Loafers in 2024:

Today, Gucci loafers have proven their timelessness, surviving not only years, but also moments in and out of the fashion 'spotlight'. The classic, comfortable accessory is nothing if not a smart investment that can elevate any wardrobe—whether you're a minimalist or maximalist. The most iconic styles have to be the original 1953 horsebit, which has barely changed since its inaugural design, and the more modern reimagining (but no less classic) Jordaan that has an altogether more streamlined look. I picked a black pair of these for my first designer investment purchase over five years ago and I still wear them on repeat to this day.

These days there are so many iterations of Gucci loafers to suit your own personal style—from velvet and raffia textures to bright colours, oversized logo prints and backless silhouettes. The brand reinvents its hero piece every season, adding new print options or a chunkier sole, keeping the loafers relevant and always effortlessly cool. It just goes to show that some things will never go out of style.

How to Care for Gucci Loafers:

With their timeless style, along with prices starting at over £700, a pair of Gucci loafers is an investment that you'll want to keep in your wardrobe for many years to come. Taking regular care of them is the best way to ensure you get the best out of your loafers.

Antonia Johnstone, CEO & owner of Sign of the Times says, "Cleaning the loafers is important to maintain their quality and keep them looking their best. This should consist of regular cleaning; using a leather cleaner and gently applying it with a soft cloth. Then applying a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. When storing the loafers, keep them out of direct sunlight to prevent any fading. It is best to keep them in their dust bag to protect from dust and scratches. Avoid wearing the loafers in any harsh weather conditions like rain or snow."

"Gucci loafers can hold their value well; if they are well taken care of, it will be much easier to resell them in the future for a good price, if you decide to do so. Investing in a few high-quality, preloved pieces and taking care of them can be a more thoughtful approach to fashion, leading to a more curated and stylish wardrobe."

Keep scrolling to shop our edit of the best pairs to invest in now. Then, see our gallery of Gucci loafer styling inspiration.

Shop Gucci Loafers:

How to Style Gucci Loafers:

After browsing the number of styles above, I don't need to tell you how versatile Gucci loafers are. Whether you opt for a classic black pair or a fun monogram iteration, the styling possibilities for this shoe are endless.

Johnstone reinforced this, stating that, "Thanks to their timeless design, Gucci loafers can elevate any outfit. Whether it is dressing up a casual look such as jeans and a classic white t-shirt, or a tailored suit for more business occasions, the loafers give off a polished and fashion-forward look. They are also a seasonal staple; in warmer months, the loafers work with shorts and a linen shirt or in cooler months, they work with jeans and a chunky sweater. They are a versatile, yet stylish piece, which are a great addition to any wardrobe."

Style Notes: Sienna Miller knows that well-chosen accessories can elevate any outfit, which is likely why she opted for a pair of Gucci loafers in bright red.

Style Notes: Gucci loafers are a street style staple. Use them to add a more elegant touch to your denim outfits.

Style Notes: There are even chunky versions for those who prefer a bit of height.

Style Notes: The classic style has been particularly popular over the last couple of years, with the 'quiet-luxury' aesthetic taking over.

Style Notes: This show-goer spells it out with these new logo loafers.

Style Notes: Jennifer Aniston is often seen sporting Gucci loafers in classic black hues as she runs errands in New York and L.A.

Style Notes: A modern iteration which incorporates the brand's interlocking G logo motif.

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.