A Touch of Y2K Edge and Timeless Equestrian Chic: Inside Hailey Bieber’s Latest Street Style Moment
As one of today’s preeminent street style stars, Hailey Bieber has honed an aesthetic all her own, one that flawlessly fuses It-girl edge with timeless sophistication. Her latest off-duty ensemble offers a masterclass in this delicate sartorial balancing act.
Spotted out in Los Angeles, Mrs. Bieber cut an effortlessly cool figure, her outfit a compelling mix of nostalgic early-aughts flair and heritage equestrian chic courtesy of one legendary Italian luxury house. The supermodel donned a cherry red graphic jersey, its varsity-inspired lines and inky black accents chanelling the sort of disruptive, rebellious sportswear spirit that dominated Y2K-era runways.
This eye-catching top proved the perfect canvas for a wardrobe hero: Balenciaga’s iconic black leather trench. With its sharp tailored lines, silver hardware, and waist-whittling silhouette, this structured topper has fast become a favorite of fashion cognoscenti from Rihanna to our very own Cali It-girl. An enduring classic that nonetheless feels distinctly modern, Mrs. Bieber’s outerwear choice solidifies her role as a discerning arbiter of what’s covetable now.
So far, so 2022. But then came the shoes. In a move that surprised delightfully, our model-of-the-moment slipped into a pair of Gucci’s Horsebit leather loafers, revealing herself as a secret traditionalist. With their time-tested pennys loafer shapes, equestrian-inspired metal hardware, and modest block heels, this footwear makes a subtle but powerful case for the staying power of heritage luxury amidst the relentless ping-ponging trends of today.
Indeed, Mrs. Bieber’s polished take on a seventies-born Gucci icon offers a compelling argument for harnessing the power of fashion history. First crafted by the Florentine fashion house back in 1953, the Horsebit loafer draws inspiration from the world of privileged pony clubs and hunt meets, bringing a patrician sort of nobility to everyday dressing.
Over the decades, this versatile slip-on has won over statesmen and silver screen heartthrobs alike, counting President Bush, Brad Pitt, and most recently, Ms. Bieber’s close friends Zoe Kravitz and Gigi Hadid among its famous fans. So timeless is its appeal that for 2023, Gucci hosted a special exhibition honouring the Horsebit’s seventieth birthday during Milan Fashion Week this past summer.
Yet despite its decidedly old-school origins, this shoe feels as relevant in today’s landscape as Mrs. Bieber’s most daring Balenciaga get-ups. Paired with of-the-moment pieces, as in her recent street style moment, it lends an unexpectedly grounding energy, proving that a little bit of history can make an ensemble feel decidedly fresh.
Much like the woman herself, who has emerged as uniquely nimble code-switcher between fashion’s avant-garde edge and its institutional legacy. Her carefully-honed personal aesthetic speaks to the power of forging one’s own path by bringing together the best of all worlds. We expect her to continue to school us all in the fine are of unexpected juxtaposition for seasons to come. Judging by her latest unexpectedly brilliant ensemble, this is one street styler who understands how to keep us guessing, while keeping us perpetually inspired.
