When it comes to luxury wear, Gucci has situated itself as a champion of novel design and top-notch quality.
An article of clothing doesn't always need to be emblazoned with interlocking Gs for one to know that it is, in fact, a Gucci original. A subtle but unmistakable marker of the Italian house, for example, is the horsebit. This interlocking piece of gold on Gucci's pieces is more than just an aesthetic addition, you see.
Ahead, we discuss how the horsebit came to be, and why it's become such a distinct element in the brand's DNA.
What Is the Gucci Horsebit?
A horsebit, as the name implies, is an apparatus horses "bite" unto so that riders are able to steer them. Aldo Gucci decided to incorporate it into their lineup of leather loafers after a trip to the U.S. in the early 1950s. He noticed how men usually opted for simple, slip-on shoes that had no unique indicator of what brand they were from. It made sense to add a horsebit to their designs given that their main clientele at the time were fond of equestrian activites.
After stamping it on a pair of loafers that have since become an iconic number from the Italian label, they sought to make the horsebit more than just plain decoration; but also as an ineffable marker of their history and unmatched artistry.
And so, seven or so decades later, the horsebit has became an insignia of Gucci's distinct level of chicness and their dedication to elevating everyday fashion. You can find the gold hardware stamped on many of their offerings, which, of course, includes their bags.
How Much Are Gucci Horsebit Bags?
In this decade of stylish reinvention, Gucci has come out with a refreshed roster of their classic Horsebit totes. Their classic shoulder bags now come in a myriad of hues, and are each adorned with the distinct gold hardware. There are also different size variations and silhouettes to choose from, whether you fancy the original rectangular top-flap or the dome-shaped top-handle. Depending on the style and material you go for, an average Horsebit purse can fetch for anywhere from P170,000 to P400,000. But of course, for special releases in croc or ostrich leather, prices are naturally expected to spike up.
Shoulder Bag in Black Leather, $3250 (approximately P195,000), GUCCI, gucci.com
Shoulder Bag in Red Leather, $3250 (approximately P195,000), GUCCI, gucci.com
GG Supreme Brown Shoulder Bag, $2890 (approximately P173,400), GUCCI, gucci.com
Python Top Handle Bag in Pink, $6500 (approximately P390,000), GUCCI, gucci.com
Mini Bag in Orange Leather, $2800 (approximately P168,000), GUCCI, gucci.com
Local Celebrities Wearing Gucci Horsebit Bags
Given their timeless elegance and apparent wearability, the Horsebit bag has become a go-to for many of our local style stars. See how they style their pieces below.
1. A Gucci gal through and through, Anne Curtis testified to the perpetual chicness of head-to-toe neutrals. She slung a black Horsebit around her cropped white button-down and black trousers as she basked in the afternoon light.
2. Going on a more sporty-chic route was Lovi Poe, who teamed her black shoulder piece with a red-hot Adidas x Gucci maxi dress and snakeskin thigh-high boots. Clock the gold hardware present on both the bag and the shoes!
3. For an ensemble that was at once edgy and dainty, Gabbi Garcia styled the go-to black number and reptilian booties with an embroidered sheer dress and minimal jewelry.
4. With a more relaxed iteration of the Horsebit by her side, Liz Uy was a vision of refinement in split black-and-white coords. Her ruby red lippie was the perfect pop of color!
5. Liz's equally-as-stylish sister Laureen served a more relaxed take on an all-Gucci OOTD, choosing a monogram Horsebit and an oversized navy blue suit. She rounded out the 'fit with a knit inner top and black cowboy boots.
6. Pattern-mixing? Yes please! Camille Co exhibits just how to achieve the multi-print look with her striped Horsebit, plaid suit jacket, and lacey overlay skirt. Tres chic!
7. Here's an OOTD to wear when you have a marathon at 6 p.m. and a fashion show at 7 p.m.! Patricia Prieto hits a home run as she pairs her cozy yet chic cable-knit Adidas x Gucci coords with a striking red Horsebit shoulder bag.
The new Gucci Horsebit 1995 collection is available in the Gucci boutique in Greenbelt 4, Makati and online at gucci.com.
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