Equestrian style has influenced designer fashion (and therefore mainstream fashion) for decades and is deeply rooted in the foundation of classic brands like Ralph Lauren, Gucci, and Hermes. Coco Chanel revolutionized the equestrian fashion in the 1920s when she said a polite hell no to riding in dresses and designed her own breeches based on the men’s ones.
Throughout history, there have been some standout eq-inspired pieces (Dior Saddle Bag forever!!!) but the one that most often comes to mind is the iconic bit loafer by Gucci. Originally a men’s shoe, this design first debuted over 60 years ago and has since been worn by all genders all over the world. I’ve been loving the versatility of Gucci’s modern update of their classic loafer, the Princetown mule. I’m not in a place to spend almost $700 on a pair of shoes, but lucky for us, bit hardware has popped up on a multitude of shoes – and they come in a variety of styles and budgets. Here are my top 12 (and many are on sale!):
1) Steve Madden Kandi Mule, $59.95
2) Sam Edelman Linnie Mule, $119.95
3) Vionic Adeline Mule, $119.95 ON SALE for $59.97
4) Sam Edelman Lior Loafer, $140 ON SALE for $79.97
5) Two24 by Ariat Jubilee Mule, $227.95
6) Spring Step Deisyluv Slide Sandal, $99.95
7) Aldo Qadovia Loafer, $80 ON SALE for $55.99
8) Ariat Bit Cruiser, $79.96
9) The Flexx Sneak a Bit Loafer – $144.95
10) Nine West Wild Girls Loafer, $89 ON SALE for $31.15
11) Geox Brogue Loafer, $169.95
12) & Other Stories Equestrian Buckle Loafers, $125 (White Croc is on sale for $63!)
Long live the bit-adorned shoe! Which pair is your favorite?