Long before trend-bucking creative director Alessandro Michele brought his hallucinatory “Utopian Fantasy” campaign to Gucci, it was a modest Italian leather shop. Today, it’s an internationally renowned luxury house with an iconic logo, and vintage Gucci clothing, handbags and shoes are among high fashion's most covetable goods.
Guccio Gucci (1881–1953) admired the stylish suitcases he saw wealthy guests arrive with at the Savoy Hotel in London, where he worked as a bellhop. So, in 1921, after a stint at Franzi, a luggage company in his hometown of Florence, he opened a leather goods shop of his own.
At first, Gucci’s Florence business specialized in equestrian accessories. But as its reputation flourished, particularly among the English aristocracy, so too did its footprint. In 1938, he brought three of his sons — Aldo, Vasco and Rodolfo — into the business and expanded it to Rome and later Milan. In the mid-1930s, a League of Nations embargo against Italy pushed Gucci to experiment with alternatives to imported leather. Its woven hemp fabric from Naples, adorned with the brand’s signature diamond print, was a hit, especially among A-list celebrities. The material was first used on suitcases before finding enduring popularity on handbags. (No list of revered designer purses would be complete without Gucci.)
In the 1950s, Elizabeth Taylor carried one of Gucci’s bamboo-handled tote bags, another adaptation to material rationing. After Jackie Kennedy was seen sporting a slouchy Gucci tote in 1961, it was renamed for the First Lady. Then Grace Kelly, on a visit to the boutique in Milan, inspired Rodolfo Gucci to work with Italian illustrator and Gucci textile designer Vittorio Accornero on the Flora print in 1966. Taking cues from Sandro Botticelli’s Primavera, with its pattern of flora and insects, it was painted entirely by hand and featured no fewer than 37 colors.
In 1953, just 15 days after opening his first store on New York’s 5th Avenue, Guccio passed away at 72. The early 1970s saw store openings in Tokyo and Hong Kong, but by the late 1980s, Gucci was floundering. Rodolfo Gucci took charge in 1982, but family drama and lawsuits ensued. In 1993, Rodolfo’s son, Maurizio, transferred his shares in the company to Investcorp, ending the family’s involvement in Gucci. Dawn Mello, then-president of Bergdorf Goodman, joined as creative director in 1989. But it was Tom Ford, who took over as creative director in 1994, who ultimately revived the brand.
Ford’s racy ads, shot by photographers such as Mario Testino, stirred controversy. And his potent vision of sexed-up femininity — with “jewel-toned satin shirts unbuttoned to there,” as Vogue described his breakthrough 1995 runway show — was wildly successful. The new millennium brought new ownership — Pinault Printemps Redoute in 2004 — and a more toned-down vision from Frida Giannini, who became sole creative director in 2006. Alessandro Michele was named creative director in 2015, and the storied brand took a giant leap forward.
Find vintage Gucci clothing and accessories on 1stDibs.
Gucci Pink Leather Anita Bamboo Handbag
By Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Gucci Pink Leather Anita Bamboo Handbag is a stunning statement piece that exudes elegance and sophistication. Crafted from luxurious pink leather, this handbag features Gucci’s icon...
Gucci Bamboo Shopper Leather Tote Bag
By Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Elevate your style with the iconic Gucci Bamboo Shopper Leather Tote Bag—a true embodiment of luxury, sophistication, and timeless elegance. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this large ivory leather tote is a symbol of Gucci's renowned craftsmanship and enduring style. The defining feature of this exceptional tote is the signature bamboo handle, which not only adds a touch of exotic charm but also represents Gucci's heritage and commitment to unique design. Crafted with precision, the bamboo handle is a fashion statement in itself. This bag is constructed from high-quality ivory leather, ensuring both durability and a luxurious appearance. The pristine ivory color is versatile, complementing a wide range of outfits and occasions. The generously sized interior of the tote offers ample space for all your essentials and more. Whether you're going to the office, shopping, or embarking on a weekend getaway, this bag accommodates your belongings with ease. Stay organized with the magnetic and zip-up pockets inside the bag. These compartments provide convenient storage for your valuables, ensuring quick access to items such as your phone, wallet, keys, or cosmetics. Enjoy versatility with the included removable leather strap. Carry the tote by its bamboo handle for a classic and sophisticated look, or attach the strap for a hands-free, crossbody style. This feature makes it suitable for both formal events and casual outings. The bag is adorned with gold tone hardware, adding a touch of opulence and elegance. These details enhance the bag's overall aesthetic, emphasizing its luxurious appeal. The Gucci Bamboo Shopper Leather Tote Bag is a testament to Gucci's commitment to timeless design, quality, and luxury. Style this handbag with a YSL jumpsuit...
Tom Ford for Gucci Suede Black & Red Indy Hobo Shoulder Bag circa 2000
By Tom Ford for Gucci, Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Tom Ford for Gucci Suede Black & Red Indy Hobo Shoulder Bag circa 2000 is a timeless and luxurious accessory that embodies the elegance and boldness of early 2000s designer fashi...
Gucci Babouska Coated Canvas Belted Satchel Bag circa 2008
By Gucci
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Gucci Babouska Coated Canvas Belted Satchel Bag circa 2008 is a stunning vintage accessory that exemplifies timeless Italian craftsmanship and luxury. Crafted from durable coated can...
Versace Red & Black Cowhide & Leather Studded Repeat Shoulder Bag circa Y2K
By Versace
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Versace Red & Black Cowhide & Leather Studded Repeat Shoulder Bag circa Y2K is a striking statement piece that combines bold design with luxurious materials. Featuring a vivi...
Rare Chanel 2011 Crossbody Hobo Bag
By Chanel
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Stunning brown leather Chanel drawstring handbag circa 2011! Brown leather is embossed with iconic Chanel camellias which gives this bag such an elegant touch. Featuring brass hardware, a brass and interwoven leather crossbody style chain as the strap, and a brass chord stitching going along the perimeter as the finishing touch. A gorgeous cherry red lining is accompanied by a zip-fastening pocket as well as a slip pocket to ensure all of your belongings remain secure all day. The bag is complete with an amazing signature Chanel interlocking 'C' charm hanging from the drawstring. This is perfect for anyone wanting to channel the boho aesthetic or who's looking for something that's more unique for Chanel as this is a super rare style. Style this with a Missoni Kaftan, an Hermes headscarf...
Gucci Jackie 1961 Large Red Calfskin Leather With Long Strap
By Gucci
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Gucci Jackie 1961 Large Red Calfskin Leather With Long Strap These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. The Gucci Jackie 1961 Handbag is a modern take on an ...
Gucci Jackie 1961 Small Red Pebbled Leather Shoulder Bag
By Gucci
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Gucci Jackie 1961 Small Red Pebbled Leather Shoulder Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. The Gucci Jackie 1961 Red Handbag is a modern take on an ...
Louis Vuitton Vintage Red Epi Leather Petit Noe Noé Bucket Shoulder Bag
By Louis Vuitton
Located in Rome, Rome
Discover a piece of fashion history with this Louis Vuitton Vintage Petit Noe Bucket Shoulder Bag, beautifully crafted in France between 1990 and 1999. The iconic Noé design originat...
Gucci Jackie 1961 Red Burgundy Leather Bag Small Shoulder Bag
By Gucci
Located in AUBERVILLIERS, FR
Gucci Jackie 1961 Red Burgundy Leather Bag Small Shoulder Bag These are professional photos of the actual bag offered by Luxbags. The Gucci Jackie 1961 Red Handbag is a modern take o...
Gucci Red Piuma Lux Energy Medium Re(Belle) Bucket Backpack
By Gucci
Located in New York, NY
Listing Title: Gucci Red Piuma Lux Energy Medium Re(Belle) Bucket Backpack SKU: 155220 Condition: Pre-owned Condition Description: Since its foundation in Florence in 1921, Gucci ha...
Hermès Red Gao Hobo Shoulder Bag
By Hermès
Located in West Hollywood, CA
Hermes Gao hobo red leather shoulder bag with palladium hardware. Interior is lined in toile. Comes with generic dust cover.
Created during Alessandro Michele's tenure at the brand, this sparkling, whimsical minaudière feels just right for a night out.
The iconic Italian label’s traveling exhibition has just arrived in London.
