These have clearly stood the test of time
By Rohit Kamble
There are essentials, there are trendy pieces, and then there are iconic items that every fashion-forward man aspires to have in his closet. No doubt, someone from the world of finance might grasp this concept better—these pieces are investments. Crafted with supreme quality materials, they endure for years, making them some of the most renowned fashion pieces globally. The moment you don one of these, you make a statement.
Returning to the idea of investment, it’s not only significant to you; brands have invested in these pieces for decades. They’ve kept them relevant by continually reinventing their look, purpose, and status. Some of these pieces have not only built the brand but have also served as a source of inspiration for many of us to strive for personal growth and one day be able to afford them. Let’s have a look at how these iconic pieces have evolved over the years.
THE BURBERRY TRENCH COAT
I recently bumped into a friend who works at Burberry, and she kindly invited me to the store. There, I encountered the most iconic outerwear hanging on a separate wall. It was my inaugural experience donning it, and boy, was it heavy. Featuring an oversized fit and reversibility, the Burberry trench from the Fall/Winter 2023 collection exuded more glam than its military predecessor. Originally popularised during World War I, the trench coat gained further fame through cinematic gems like Breakfast at Ti any’s and Casablanca, where it was romanticised. What allowed the trench coat to endure even through wars? Its versatility. Whether draped over a basic T-shirt and denim or elegantly layered onto your red-carpet ensemble, the trench coat seamlessly adapts to various styles.
While the design elements of the trench coat evolved with the trends of the 1960s and 1970s, its classic features remained unwavering. When Daniel Lee, Burberry’s former creative director, opened his debut collection with an oversized trench coat adorned with fur trims, it symbolised the paramount significance of this piece for the brand and the fashion world.
GUCCI HORSEBIT LOAFER
Mr Aldo Gucci’s trip to New York in 1953 is hailed as one of the most successful journeys in fashion history because,as a souvenir, he bestowed upon us the iconic Gucci Horsebit Loafer. Gucci commemorates 70 years of this legendary shoe this year, a timeless exemplar of impeccable craftsmanship. Throughout the years, various creative directors have showcased their ingenuity at Gucci, but it was Alessandro Michele who played a pivotal role in rejuvenating and evolving the brand’s aesthetic, particularly the iconic horsebit loafer.
Crafted in a variety of materials, including leather, suede, and exotic skins, the horsebit loafers have stood the test of time. Gucci has consistently experimented with different finishes, such as patent leather or distressed leather, bestowing the loafers with a contemporary and diverse allure.
At Gucci’s SS2024 show, models graced the runway, flaunting an array of horsebit loafer styles. From mules and platform heels to slippers and more, the collection showcased the enduring versatility and innovation of this iconic footwear.
TOD’S GOMMINO
If you have even the slightest interest in fashion, the mention of Tod’s will likely evoke thoughts of classic loafers. Additionally, the Gommino is another notable shoe inspired by the city of New York. However, what propelled the Gommino to fame? Was it the quality leather or the vivid colors? No, it’s the distinctive rubber nubs, 133 to be precise, beneath the sole. The Gommino also boasts a lace detail and an iconic Double T metal clamp. From Harrison Ford to Princess Diana, the Gommino is a favourite for a casual and timeless look. Do you know that every Tod’s shoe is handmade? Well, now you know why they are so iconic.
DIOR SADDLE
The first time I laid eyes on this iconic bag was in Sex and the City where Sarah Jessica Parker effortlessly sported one. Originally crafted in 1999 by the visionary John Galliano, the Dior Saddle Bag swiftly became the ‘IT’ girls’ must-have accessory. Galliano’s genius shone through as he conceptualised this bag at the turn of the century, a time when fashionistas were opening themselves to experimentation. Consequently, this spunky-shaped bag became an overnight sensation.
In 2018, Maria Grazia Chiuri took the reins and reintroduced the Saddle Bag in various captivating versions. Today, the Saddle Bag has evolved into a versatile piece that can be worn as a messenger bag and is even available in designs tailored for men. Nevertheless, the original designs from its inception have now achieved coveted ‘vintage status.’ These timeless pieces continue to carry the allure making them not just accessories but cherished fashion artifacts.
LOUIS VUITTON TRUNK
Accessories but cherished fashion artifacts. primarily utilitarian, trunks have transformed into status symbols under the influence of Louis Vuitton. The inception of the trunk dates back to 1854, but it truly gained iconic status in 1896 with the introduction of its distinctive monogram. Since then, the LV trunk has solidified its place as a fashion icon.
Throughout the years, the trunk has experienced a resurgence in various forms and sizes, evolving from a mere clutch to a functional bar – akin to a fashion world’s ‘Ditto’ (Pokemon). In 2023, Louis Vuitton’s innovative creative director, Pharrell Williams, showcased these trunks in a unique manner, stacked on a golf cart. This presentation underscored their enduring importance and relevance in the contemporary fashion landscape.
While initially crafted to accommodate the belongings of the elite, today, these trunks carry not only the brand’s heritage but also a substantial portion of fashion history. Louis Vuitton’s trunks, once practical vessels, have metamorphosed into timeless symbols of luxury and style.
Reproduced with permission from Mansworldindia.com
