Gigi Hadid Steps Back into Stuart Weitzman’s Iconic Boots for 40th Anniversary Campaign: ‘Full-Circle Moment’ (Exclusive Photos)

**Gigi Hadid Reunites with Stuart Weitzman for 40th Anniversary Campaign**

Supermodel Gigi Hadid is making a return to luxury footwear brand Stuart Weitzman nearly a decade after her initial collaboration, marking what she describes as a “full-circle moment.” Hadid is set to appear alongside celebrated figures Misty Copeland, a renowned ballet dancer, and Yang Mi, a prominent Chinese actress, in the launch of the Fall 2026 campaign that commemorates the brand’s 40th anniversary.

The campaign highlights the evolution of Stuart Weitzman’s renowned stretch footwear, a signature element of its design philosophy since the brand’s inception in 1986. Shot in the vibrant settings of New York City and Shanghai, the campaign reflects not only the diverse backgrounds of its ambassadors but also the innovative spirit that has characterised the brand’s legacy.

This reunion is significant for Hadid, who served as the face of Stuart Weitzman from Spring 2016 through Spring 2018 and contributed to the creation of special limited-edition designs during her tenure. Since then, the model has experienced notable personal and professional changes, becoming a mother and launching her own fashion label, Guest in Residence. Reflecting on her journey, Hadid expressed her emotional connection to the brand, stating: “I will always have a special connection to Stuart Weitzman as the brand was one of my first-ever luxury fashion partners. To come back now, 10 years later, as a mum and to celebrate their 40th anniversary feels like a full-circle moment.”

The nostalgia of the campaign is carefully intended, yet it goes beyond mere sentimentality. The collaboration brings together three influential women from various spheres of fashion and culture, each with unique connections to the brand. Misty Copeland, who previously featured in Stuart Weitzman’s Holiday 2019 campaign, has made significant strides in the world of ballet, becoming the first Black female principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre. Following her retirement from ballet last year, Copeland continues to advocate for the arts through her foundation while recounting her excitement about participating in the campaign post-recovery from hip surgery. “I was thrilled, and I couldn’t be prouder to help tell the message of rising above any obstacle,” she stated.

Similarly, Yang Mi’s contribution provides a distinct global perspective. As a leading actress in China, she is a regular spotlight on international catwalks and publications. Mi previously collaborated with Stuart Weitzman in 2019, creating a series of limited-edition collections for both spring and autumn seasons. Looking back at her previous partnership, she shared, “Stuart Weitzman brought me to a broader global stage and expanded my fashion horizons. We’ve always believed that every woman can find her own rhythm, in her own time, between strength and grace.”

The unique backdrop of the campaign emphasises one of Stuart Weitzman’s defining inspirations: the “Metropolitan woman.” This concept epitomises a woman who moves through diverse environments with assurance, balancing various roles, ambitions, and personal style. The collection for Fall 2026, which includes a selection of boots, loafers, flats, and sneakers, reflects this modern lifestyle.

Among the standout pieces in this new collection are the Stuart Power Boot 75, the 5050 Gisele Boot, and various other designs that utilise the brand’s hallmark stretch technology. This design ethos, which is synonymous with Stuart Weitzman, extends beyond just boots to include styles that fit seamlessly into a multifaceted wardrobe, combining both elegance and practicality.

As Gigi Hadid, Misty Copeland, and Yang Mi unite for this campaign, they collectively embody the modern, diverse woman that Stuart Weitzman seeks to dress. Their convergence reflects the brand’s aspiration to celebrate its heritage while also looking forward.

Jonathan Lelonek, the brand’s president, articulated the significance of this moment, stating, “I am proud to lead this brand as we celebrate our 40th anniversary and welcome back the iconic ambassadors. Stretch is an intrinsic part of the Stuart Weitzman story, reinforcing our commitment to craftsmanship and a style-meets-comfort approach to design, which sets us apart in the luxury footwear industry.”

As Stuart Weitzman enters its fifth decade, the brand’s ability to honour its roots while innovating for the future suggests a promising trajectory ahead. Through this latest campaign, the brand demonstrates that revisiting successful elements from its past is a strategic way to move forward.