Starting with the basics …. Gucci Brixton loafers shown in this review are also known as the “Horsebit Loafers” or the “Foldable Slim Horsebit Loafers”. As you can see, I have opted for a pair in black, which is the most classic version of the shoes. Brixtons are also available in other colours, such as beige, pink, brown and white, all of which are gorgeous. I have a sneaking suspicion I may pick up the red ones in the future too, as they are rather tempting!
What makes Gucci Brixton loafers really special is the fabulously soft and smooth leather. As far as leather goes, it is exceptionally supple so it quickly adjusts to the shape of the foot for a bespoke fit. It is almost like having your shoes made to measure, and who would not like that?
The unique aspect of Gucci Brixtons, which distinguishes them from other loafers e.g. the Jordaans, is the collapsible heel. Thanks to the foldable back, the shoes can be worn two ways i.e. as loafers or as mules. I did not purchase my Brixtons with the intention of using them as slippers – for that I have my Gucci Princetowns – but this function may turn out to be useful one day, especially during travel. As much as the foldable heel is a good gimmick, I guess that most people who buy Brixtons end up wearing them as loafers to protect the back. They are not the cheapest shoes, after all, so you can be excused for wanting to preserve their original shape for as long as possible.
In terms of the overall appearance, Gucci Brixton loafers have a slimline silhouette and gently rounded “almond” toes. They are decorated with the iconic Horsebit detail, one of the most recognisable and long-standing trade marks of the brand, which clearly says “oh, that’s Gucci!”. By virtue of not being excessively shiny or bright, the gold-tone metal is reasonably low-key and tasteful, and yet visible. The heel measures 1cm, which is pretty standard for flats.
Although loafers can often have a masculine edge, the shape of Gucci Brixtons is more delicate than what you would normally expect from this model. As such, they should appeal even to those who usually gravitate towards more feminine styles of flat shoes, like the ballerinas. This is something that certainly took me by surprise. While I did not expect my Gucci Brixton loafers to be particularly cool, I was worried they might look a bit frumpy and old-school. In reality, they turned out to have nice and slender cut, and are actually quite elegant (well, at least for loafers). [Back to Menu]
