All products are selected independently by our editorial team. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Super top models, actors, pop icons from the past and present: all prominent figures – and their moms – have something fundamental in common with us common mortals, which allows us to definitively dismiss any theory of the six degrees of separation. It’s precisely a humble pair of adidas Gazelle for around 100 euros.

Once worn by Noel Gallagher, Mick Jagger, and the Run-DMC, with a very street style, the adidas Gazelle continue to be worn by the likes of Harry Styles, Brad Pitt, and Prince Harry, confirming their prominent place in the wardrobes that matter. Among musicians, athletes, and various celebrities like Kate Moss, Helena Christensen, and Fred Durst, the Gazelle is no longer just a pillar of sneaker culture, but has become an element of pop culture itself.

Launched in 1966, like many other stars of the period, adidas Gazelle are arguably among the most important models in sneaker history. This shoe – at least in its early days – raised eyebrows because it effectively raised the bar for sneaker-based style, replacing the white leather of the era’s offerings with vibrant suedes in red or blue, customizable according to sports, occasions, etc. But why do we (and a myriad of famous personalities) continue to talk about them and wear them, even over fifty years later?

adidas Originals Gazelle

110 €

Asos

However, the Gazelle never completely left the spotlight. Worn by hip-hoppers in the ’80s and Britpoppers in the ’90s, every small change has seen their silhouette improve. Since their debut in ’66, adidas’ Gazelle has moved away from any rigid/functional color codes imposed by various sports and are now available in a wide range of vibrant suede versions, complete with those all-important Three Stripes. In short, they are extremely versatile: sleek, minimalist, and highly customizable. And it’s probably this versatility that has led them to enter such diverse and varied wardrobes, from that of Prince Harry traveling – as already mentioned – to those of various movie characters.

With the guccification of midsole, branded upper, and branded tongue, adidas’ very sporty Gazelle has definitively moved away from its Olympic roots, solidifying its place even in the world of Italian luxury. And as the favorite child of Gucci, it’s no surprise that Styles has been rarely seen without these sneakers on. Notably, the Gucci-hybridized shoe made its public debut on the feet of the pop star, paired with an ensemble consisting of all his favorite brands (JW Anderson, Ami, and Eliou), while posing for promotional shots for As It Was. The result was highly effective.