Charlotte suede and horsebit pumps

The history of the Charlotte model

The name Charlotte identifies a family of Gucci footwear characterized by a block heel and the presence of the metal horsebit. The model was created as a practical alternative to the classic pump, designed for those seeking a sober elegance to wear from the office to the evening. The suede upper and smooth leather trim create a contrast of textures that makes the gold horsebit the focal point of the shoe. Over the years, the model has been reissued in various material and color variations, while maintaining its recognizable structure: round toe, covered heel, and metal application on the upper.

The Gucci maison

Gucci was founded in Florence in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, who opened a leather goods workshop in via della Vigna Nuova. In the 1950s, the company introduced the horsebit, inspired by horse bridles, which became a symbol of the house alongside the green and red web stripe. The brand has gone through different eras, from the Tom Ford period in the 1990s to the most recent creative directions, maintaining a strong Florentine artisanal identity. Footwear production remains one of the maison's historic sectors, where the horsebit continues to be applied to both men's and women's models.