Progressive, creative, and highly influential, Gucci is always reinventing the brand to take the most modern approach to the world of fashion. Thanks to the latest creative director Alessandro Michele, the Gucci House has rebranded its vision to fit the 21st century’s idea of luxury. This has only enabled the popular brand to further strengthen its status as one of the world’s most luxurious fashion houses. Innovative, contemporary, and eclectic – Gucci handbags are synonymous to Italian craftsmanship, unparalleled in their high quality and attention to detail.
About Gucci
Gucci is a traditional Italian brand of fashion and luxury leather goods, with deep roots in the fashion industry. Founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence in 1921, the Gucci Group is now owned by Kering, a French holding company. With origins that go back to the end of the 19th century, the Gucci Group didn’t take long to become one of the most successful manufacturers of exclusive leather goods in the world. It also created other fashion products, including clothing and accessories. Partnering with three of his sons, Gucci helped push the company to new levels of popularity. During this time, the company opened more shops in Florence, as well as new stores in Rome and Milan.
Gucci’s stores featured the highest quality of finely crafted leather accessories. Visitors could choose from iconic handbags and shoes, as well as silks and knitwear that bore the brand’s signature pattern. During World War II, the company suffered material shortages, which meant leather handbags were replaced by cotton canvas ones. However, the already-famous double-G symbol canvas distinguished the canvas, combined with vibrant red and green bands.
At the Forefront of Luxury Goods
In 2008, the brand produced around €4.2 billion in revenue worldwide and rose to the 41st position in the Interbrand magazine’s annual 2009 “Top Global 100 Brands” chart. Gucci also holds the title of the biggest-selling Italian brand. According to the Forbes World’s Most Valuable Brands list, Gucci ranked in 2015 as the 38th most valuable brand. Alessandro Michele is the company’s creative director since January 2015, leading the brand to new heights of success under the Kering Group umbrella. A world leader in apparel and high-end accessories, Kering boasts a portfolio of impressive lifestyle, luxury, and sport brands.
As of September 2009, Gucci directly operates around 278 stores across the globe. In addition, it provides wholesale supplies to many upscale department stores and franchises. In 2013, Gucci was valued at US $12.1 billion, while sales were evaluated at US $4.7 billion.
Gucci Partnerships
Many luxury brands take on collaborations with other companies in the high-end sector. Gucci is no different. Back in 1979 and 1980, Gucci partnered with Cadillac to sell a midsize Seville luxury sedan. The exterior featured the “facing double G” Gucci logo, which is simply a symbol that included Guccio Gucci’s initials. But wait, there’s more. The interior of the luxury vehicle had a headliner of the logo, while the headrests were also adorned with the logo. Bold lettering of the “Gucci script” logo was all over the dashboard. The proud owners of the Cadillac Seville luxury sedan also enjoyed a trunk full with Gucci luggage.
Another important collaboration started in 2005, when Gucci signed with UNICEF to donate a percentage of its worldwide sales. The funds go to limited collections designed specifically for UNICEF. The money made from the sale of these exclusive items are then donated to the United Nations Children’s Fund. The annual “Gucci Campaign to Benefit UNICEF” funds education programs, healthcare, and clean water initiatives aimed at orphans and children in sub-Saharan Africa. In the first five years of the partnership, Gucci had already donated more than $7 million to UNICEF.
Gucci Handbags: High-priced Leather Items
Returning to Gucci’s fashion endeavors, let’s look at some of the most iconic Gucci handbags that you can get your hands on. We have chosen one or two models from the most popular handbag collections so everyone can find something for their taste. As one of the oldest luxurious brands, Gucci sets rather high prices for its items, so don’t be surprised by mini clutches selling for more than £1,400.
1. Gucci Sylvie Leather Mini Bag
Picture perfect of the Gucci style, the Sylvie mini bag is ideal for day-to-day use. Sturdy yet elegant, it’s large enough to fit all of your essential items. The handbag comes in a top handle shape and it features nylon Web embedded under the fabric. With a metal closure straight from the House’s archives, this Sylvie mini bag pleases the eye with its fiery color and gold chain. Made out of hibiscus red leather, the outside is smooth to the touch. The gold toned hardware will help you match with any outfit, and the detachable torchon shoulder strap increases the bag’s versatility.
2. Sylvie Floral Jacquard Handbag
From the same collection as the entry above, this Gucci features a very catchy floral-print leather. The shoulder bag comes with the signature web trim and includes shiny golden hardware. You can either carry it by the flat top handle (which has a 4.8″ drop), or you can use the adjustable shoulder strap (with a maximum of 16.5″ drop). The interior is lined with microfiber and suede, while the exterior features a beautiful floral jacquard fabric. Made in Italy with the special attention to detail of the best craftsmen, this item will be delivered to you in a special edition packaging.
3. Gucci Broadway Leather Clutch
Any woman needs a special clutch for special occasions, and this Gucci model might just catch your eye. An elegant chain clutch made in white leather, it features allover pearl studs and the cutest metal bee detail. A real work of art, the bee’s striped body is delightfully highlighted with red crystal stones and blue enamel. The wings are no way inferior, embellished with pearl effect studs. On the inside, an open pocket allows you to carry your essentials (your phone, cards, a lipstick and a compact). The removable Sylvie shoulder strap offers a 25 cm drop.
4. GG Marmont Trompe L’Oeil Shoulder Bag
There’s no better feeling than flaunting your new Gucci handbag, and with the Double G hardware on top of the flap closure, there’s no chance anyone will miss it. This GG Marmont chain shoulder bag is the ideal match for your casual outings, with a softly structured shape and a sliding chain strap that can be worn multiple ways. Whether you’re looking for a shoulder bag or a top handle one, this GG Marmont can adjust to your needs. The exquisite printed design creates a 3D effect of playful belts and buckles. Crafted in a quilted plump and super soft leather, the bag gives off a rich appearance. The antique golden hardware – a signature of Gucci handbags – is matched by a superb suede-like lining. Should your order this bag, Gucci will deliver it in a special edition packaging.
5. Gucci Leopard Print Handbag
Leopard prints will always be in style, so why not buy Gucci’s playful interpretation of the famous print? Made onto calf hair, the handbag is something of a statement accessory. It features a mysterious leopard, tapping into the original expression of the House. You have probably seen other items imprinted with this fierce animal as Gucci has continuously used it across its collections. The chain shoulder strap gives off a jewelry vibe, while the new torchon strap complements it perfectly. Under the leopard flap, the bag is made out of black matelassé leather, with a bamboo top handle and a spring button closure.
6. GG Marmont Matelassé Mini Bag
There’s nothing more chic than a vibrant color on a mini bag. Perfect for your TGIF parties, this Gucci bad boy features a soft shape and the iconic Double G hardware. The GG Marmont comes with a chain shoulder strap interrupted by a leather shoulder detail. Made in matelassé leather, the mini bag features a chevron design and antique, golden hardware. With its zip top closure, the bag provides easy access, while the suede-like lining adds a luxury feel.
7. Dionysus Embroidered Leather Hobo
Are you looking for something larger that will help you carry all of your stuff around? The Dionysus hobo is perfect for your daily needs, as Gucci introduced it in a larger size. There’s no need for your go-to handbag to look boring, so the company included a textured tiger head closure, referencing the Greek god Dionysus. Two embroidered peacock appliqués further highlight the bag’s allure. Made in smooth leather, the hobo bag sparks with its supple appearance and natural shine. The dark blue leather beautifully contrasts the blue and red shoulder strap.
8. Gucci Garden: The Souvenir Collection
The last entry on our list is a small handbag from the Gucci Garden Souvenir Collection. A mini chain model, the Gucci Garden bag features hand-finished embroidered floral appliqués. Created exclusively for Gucci.com, the item does not sell in any other department store, whether online or not. Thanks to the beige/ebony GG Supreme canvas, the bag is an eco-friendly statement. The material has low environmental impact, highlighting Gucci’s stance on the current green issues. In addition to the brown leather trims, the bag also features a chain shoulder strap with and a leather shoulder panel.
