While the global pandemic negatively impacted many luxury brands, Gucci was one of the few that came out on top. Back in 2019 Gucci was at the height of logomania and the resurgence of everything 90s. Teens, Gen Z and Millennials had become completely obsessed with Gucci’s iconic logo and it was hard to miss since it was splashed all over social media, fashion blogs, cinched around influencer’s waists, and on rap videos. Suddenly the Gucci GG logo belt became a status symbol, making it the must-have accessory of the moment.
Well, logomania is waning and we predict we’re going to see more sophisticated and slightly less ostentatious versions of luxury in the next few years. BUT fashion is cyclical and what once was hot then becomes not, and suddenly it’s hot again and Gucci is absolutely here to stay!
EVERYTHING’S GUCCI
Guccio Gucci, the founder of the Gucci brand, opened his first store in Florence, Italy in 1921 as a leather goods and luggage store. Gucci made a name for himself amongst the local horse-riding aristocrats and their demands for leather riding gear inspired Guccio to incorporate equestrian imagery, like the Horsebit, in his designs.
In 1931 and during World War II, sanctions were put in place that limited the materials used for goods, so Gucci improvised and began designing handbags and luggage in canvas, jute, and hemp which are still used today. In the 1960s, the Original GG diamond logo was created it was that iconic logo that made Gucci one of the world’s most famous and in-demand luxury brands.
In 1994 Tom Ford became Creative Director and brought his glamorous visions to the brand, resulting in a remarkable sales boost and a partnership with the Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR) which is now known as Kering, and their parent company.
WHAT’S OLD IS NEW AGAIN
When Alessandro Michele took over as Creative Director of Gucci in 2016, he wanted to make a lasting impact on the brand and honor their iconic history and has since brought back many designs and resurrected a few older collections like The Jackie O Bag, The Gucci Bamboo (Diana) Bag and the Gucci Horsebit.
GUCCI BAMBOO BAG
In 1947, Gucci launched his trademark bag, which featured a curved bamboo top handle. Elizabeth Taylor, Vanessa Redgrave and Ingrid Bergman were spotted toting the design and made it one of the hottest accessories of the 40’s, and beyond. Today, the bag has been reimagined by Alessandro Michele and now comes in three different sizes featuring removable, neon leather belts. It has been renamed the Diana Bag to pay homage to Princess Diana.
THE JACKIE O AND GUCCI JACKIE 1961 BAGS
The Fifties Constance bag, known for its half-moon hobo design and piston-shaped closure, was first introduced in the 1950s and is thought to be the original hobo bag. This instant classic became the epitome of timeless style after Jackie Kennedy Onassis was regularly spotted toting it around New York City. It was then renamed The Jackie Bag as a nod to her jet-setting style and influence over the fashion industry.
The Jackie O Bag was previously relaunched in 1999 and 2009. In 2020, Gucci’s Creative Director, Alessandro Michele, revived the iconic bag and renamed it The Jackie 1961.
THE GUCCI HORSEBIT BAG
Pulled from the archives and brought back to life, the double ring and bar design defines the Gucci Horsebit 1955’s line of handbags, totes, bucket bags and shoulder bags.
GUCCI BOSTON BAG
A timeless barrel design with top handles and a top-zip closure. It’s been updated multiple times in different fabrics, colors and prints. Many feature the Gucci red and green vintage web stripe detail, which was created in the 1950’s and derived from a saddle girth.
GUCCI MARMONT
The Gucci Marmont Collection features an artsy update on the GG logo, and it adorns lambskin leather in a quilted, zig-zag design that defines the Marmont’s designer handbags, wallets, belts, and more. This expensive and now-iconic collection is definitely worth the investment.
GUCCI DIONYSUS COLLECTION
When the Dionysus—a dramatic, structured bag designed by Alessandro Michele—hit the shelves and online shops in 2015, it immediately became a star. The aged metal clasp tipped with two tiger heads and glistening chain straps make a strong statement against the buttery leather, smooth canvas and luxe python designs, much like the namesake god.
GUCCI OPHIDIA COLLECTION
The retro-inspired Gucci Ophidia collection in GG canvas features Gucci’s vintage signature web stripe and the double G logo which can be found on Gucci designer handbags, wallets, belts, and more. This expensive and now-iconic collection is definitely worth the investment.
GUCCI SYLVIE COLLECTION
Alessandro Michele introduced the now iconic Sylvie Bag shortly after the Dionysus. Whether crafted in buttery soft leather, rich brocade or plush snakeskin, this design makes an entrance with Gucci’s saddle-inspired designer racing stripes and glimmering hardware.
Content and images for this blog post have been sourced and referenced from LePrix.