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.
Vintage Gucci F/W 2003 Bamboo & Fox Fur Handbag
By Gucci
Located in London, GB
Vintage Gucci by Tom Ford brown bamboo and fox fur from the 2003 fall winter collection . Features a light beige brown tone fox fur body , brown leather top handles and gold tone har...
Vintage Gucci F/W 2003 Bamboo & Fur Handbag
By Gucci
Located in London, GB
Vintage Gucci by Tom Ford brown bamboo and raccoon fur from the 2003 fall winter collection . Features a brown raccoon fur body , brown leather top handles and gold tone hardware, br...
Gucci Contemporary Unisex Medium Calfskin Bold Bamboo Top Handle Bag
By Gucci
Located in Capri, IT
Gucci Medium calfskin Bold bamboo top handle bag measurements 28*36*18 cm
2020s Gucci Diana Medium Shoulder Bag
By Gucci
Located in Arnhem, NL
Gucci Diana Medium shoulder bag made of brown leather with gold toned hardware. The bag is lined with beige suede and next to the major compartment it features one side pocket with a...
Gucci Diana Bamboo medium Bag
Located in Carnate, IT
Gucci Diana Bamboo bag. In brown leather and gold hardware. Iconic bamboo handles. Height 30 cm Length 35 cm Depth 14 cm Excellent general condi...
Gucci Bamboo in light brown silk satin handle or shoulder bag
By Gucci
Located in Capri, IT
Gucci Bamboo in light brown silk satin handle or shoulder bag measurements L 26 * h 18 * d 11 cm
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...
Gucci 1955 Horsebit Suede Tote Bag with Shearling-Trim
By Gucci
Located in Brossard, QC
This mini Horsebit 1955 Shearling-Trimmed Suede Tote Bag has a structured shape defined by shearling trim leather and a beige suede body. The flap closure is complete with Horsebit g...
Gucci Nut Leather Shoulder Bag
By Gucci
Located in Paris, FR
Gucci nut leather shoulder bag featuring a front GG gold tone claps opening, a inside gold-tone logo stamp, inside zip pocket, a 92cm adjustable shoulder strap. Circa 1970s. In good...
Gucci mini bamboo handle wallet/ crossbody
By Gucci
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
Gucci Black Nylon Bamboo Handle Mini Wallet Handbag Material Nylon Color Black Length 18 cm /7,08 inches Height 12 cm/ 4,72 inches Authentic Gucci Mini Wallet Hanbag in black ny...
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.
