A Tod’s shoe for the next generation

It’s a beautiful morning in Tuscany, and stepping out into the glorious Italian sun are five young creatives, each representing the next generation of their family’s artistic legacy (the campaign stars Lennon Gallagher, Ella Bleu Travolta, Stella Banderas, Leo Gassmann, and Roberto Rossellini), each sporting a pair of the iconic Tod’s Gommino shoe.
The black and white campaign, shot by Oliver Hadlee Pearch, looks like the love child of a nepo-baby and Italian heritage and craftsmanship that is synonymous with Tod’s. As Gallagher says in the film, ‘My heritage is the first step in my own path’, the decision to cast this group of creatives is indicative of the brand’s desire to evolve with the times, and appeal to not only generations past, but also present and future.


Today’s generation (aka Generation Z) have been known to look to the past, and the 90s and early 2000s are constant sources of comfort and inspiration. We like to think of ourselves as more conscious consumers than our elders (or youngers), and understand that quality over quantity is not only better for the environment, but investment in beautifully-crafted pieces means we can start building our own legacy wardrobe.

Tod’s iconic shoe has been revitalised for the times, and is available not only in the traditional neutral hues, but also light blue, yellow, and orange, bringing a fun, contemporary twist to an artisanal item.
Launching today in store and online, the campaign captures the joy and richness of the Italian spirit, and can be summed up in a simple quote from Gassmann: “Italian lifestyle is a word that evokes a way of life known worldwide for its carefree nature and the ability to feel good with the essentials.”

Also weighing in, Gallagher said that wearing the shoes instantly transports him to the land of la dolce vita. “What I really like about the Italian lifestyle is the pace of life is so different to my London one. Living in London can feel so chaotic, and you’re always on the go. When I visit Italy, it feels like I’ve finally got time to enjoy life’s pleasures.”
- PhotographerOliver Hadlee Pearch
- WriterCamille Bavera