ITALIAN DIARIES: Tod’s Reimagines the Gommino for a New Generation
Tod’s is writing a fresh chapter for its iconic Gommino, and it’s one worth paying attention to. For its latest campaign, Italian Diaries, the Italian house enlists a group of young creatives with serious pedigree to bring modern relevance to its signature driving shoe.
Shot against the sun-soaked backdrop of Villa Talamo in Tuscany, the campaign presents a relaxed yet sharply curated vision of Italian style. Photographer Oliver Hadlee Pearch captures a cast of five next-generation talents, including Lennon Gallagher and Roberto Rossellini—two names that resonate beyond the typical fashion crowd. Gallagher, with his rock lineage, and Rossellini, a model and artist in his own right, bring a distinct edge to Tod’s understated elegance.
At the centre of it all is, of course, the Gommino. This isn’t just a heritage play. While the silhouette stays true to its artisanal roots—think the familiar hand-stitched detailing and signature rubber pebble sole—it’s been reimagined with a lively colour palette that ranges from Tod’s classic earthy neutrals to punchier tones like yellow, light blue, and a bold orange. Offered in both suede and calf leather, the Gommino feels firmly grounded in craftsmanship while embracing a playful energy fit for today’s modern wardrobe.
What makes this campaign resonate is the way it balances ease with intent. The black-and-white portraits channel a quiet confidence, while the still-life shots let the textures and tones of the shoes do the talking. It’s a reminder that luxury doesn’t have to shout—it just needs to be worn well.
Alongside the imagery, short videos offer glimpses into the lives of the campaign’s talents, underscoring Tod’s philosophy of lived-in elegance. The Gommino isn’t positioned as a relic of Italian style, but rather as an everyday essential for those who appreciate the subtleties of craftsmanship, without losing sight of contemporary flair.