Written by Adrienne | Published on 24th November 2021
The beginning of Gucci’s story starts with one man called Guccio Gucci. Guccio founded the company on the principles of elegance and his passion for high-quality craftsmanship. From it’s more humble beginnings it has grown into a global empire. Our expert Lorenzo Altimani gives insight into the brand 's most iconic pieces and pivotal moments in Gucci history.
Classic Gucci Prints Throughout the Decades
When it comes to Gucci, certain prints and materials are unique to the brand. Our expert Lorenzo Altimani gives some examples of the kinds of materials and prints that have made Gucci recognisable.
Gucci GG Canvas with Gucci Vintage Web, spring 1974 (left), Gucci Horsebit chain pattern, 1993 (middle), and Gucci GG pattern in velvet, Fall 1997 (right)
“Gucci is a very classic Tuscanian brand and wonderful leathers have always been part of their collections. However, due to shortages in the past, they had to find an alternative and created their most iconic material, the monogram coated canvas. Their most recognisable leather comes with the “Guccissima” monogram print and it’s become their trademark ever since it was introduced.”
“Gucci has made horsebit and equestrian prints a staple in their collections. The most important print though is their monogram which keeps mesmerising customers thanks to the variations introduced under Alessandro Michele.”
Alessandro Michele has also reinvented and incorporated the Gucci Vintage Web throughout Gucci. The red and green grosgrain stripe is such a strong symbol of Gucci because of its ties to the brand’s equestrian roots. The bamboo handle on Gucci handbags is also a popular feature. Because of leather shortages during the 1940s Gucci turned to using unconventional materials such as canvas, bamboo, and hemp which have become staples of the brand. During the 1960s the Gucci Flora print was also created, and its intricate flora motif is just as recognisable as the double GG logo.
Celebrities and Their Impact on Gucci History
Celebrities such as Grace Kelly, Kate Moss, Harry Styles, and Miley Cyrus, just to name a few, have been some of Gucci’s muses throughout the decades. Two celebrities in particular that have had a lasting impact on Gucci history were Jackie Onassis and Princess Diana. In the 1960s Jackie Onsasis wore a horsebit saddle bag so often that Gucci changed the name of the bag to “The Jackie”. In the 1990s Princess Diana was also seen carrying a Gucci handbag so often that its name was changed to “The Diana ''.
When it comes to choosing a Gucci handbag there is a lot of variety in the sizes, colours, and materials to choose from, but it never hurts to start out with the classics. When asked which Gucci handbags are worth investing in our expert answered:
“The Diana (worn by LD, very elegant and nicely structured), the Bamboo because it’s the first and most iconic bag ever created by the brand and re-proposed in many variations by different creative directors. The Jackie, it’s a classic and has a nice history, one of the most iconic Gucci bags. Any vintage precious skin, the material is simply to die for.”
Jackie Onassis carrying a Gucci saddlebag alongside a Gucci Jackie 1961 small bag (left) and Diana Spencer carrying a Gucci bamboo-handled tote bag alongside a Diana small tote bag (right)
The Tom Ford Era of Gucci
During the 1980s Gucci was headed toward an uncertain future because of family scandals, low sales, and declining popularity. This all changed when a young designer by the name of Tom Ford was hired to take control of Gucci’s womenswear. When Ford debuted his first collection in 1995 people experienced a completely new side of Gucci than they had ever seen before. Instead of the classic equestrian style Gucci was known for, Ford went the complete opposite direction.
His collection featured revealing and body-hugging silhouettes that were sleek, sexy, and sophisticated. When asked if the Tom Ford era is really the best era of Gucci history our expert answered:
“The Tom Ford era has been the most revolutionary stylistic change the maison ever went through. Tom Ford’s genius managed to bring back a failing company by using his genius. He brought unbranded, sleek and audacious sophistication to the brand, which was at the time very revolutionary. Tom Ford is in my opinion one of the best talents ever at the house of Gucci and the market is betting on him now, thanks to many fans of what he made in his decade at Gucci.”
Tom Ford, Fall/Winter 1996 Gucci Collection
Gucci Going Forward
Gucci is still one of the leading luxury fashion houses in the industry. In recent years the brand's ability to incorporate newer fashion trends alongside classic Gucci pieces has proven to be a success with a new generation of Gucci lovers.
For example when Alessandro Michele, the current creative director, debuted his first collection in 2015 it featured double G logo leather belts. This nod to a classic Gucci aesthetic while adding his own twist was wildly popular. This has also expanded Gucci to not just the wealthy, but a whole new generation of shoppers from diverse backgrounds. Our expert leaves us with this last note:
“I believe a brand should be for anyone who loves it, understands it and respects it. It started as a brand available only to the rich and famous, due to the fact they had very few stores. Nowadays the brand is a global power and has become a fundamental part of modern culture.”
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