When a young Guccio Gucci noticed that equestrian iconography was absolutely de rigueur amongst the British upper classes, he made sure to incorporate it into the visual identity of his nascent fashion label, which is how the snaffle-bit loafer became synonymous with luxury footwear. It’s definitely not standard fare, as far as skate shoes go, but the extreme, repurposed tailoring of Needles is anything but standard either, and they just happen to be the collaborative partners for the latest Vault by Vans capsule collection. 

The ‘Off the Wall’ ethos of Vans slips past the luxury boutique doorman, and the result is an intriguing application of refined taste with an anything goes, chaotically individualistic spirit. The classic Vans Slip-On is the base for this contemporary reworking of the loafer.

The second go-round of the luxe slip-on concept features glossy uppers in asymmetric animal print patterns, along with metallic, bit inspired detailing. Decadence meets visual daring, for an aggressive, dandy vibe that carries the familiar waffle soles from sun soaked sidewalks, streets and empty pools into a world of deviously dim smoking lounges and top shelf liquor.

If a size is not listed, it is sold out. 

VN0A3QXY2GT