Gucci is one of the most recognizable brands in the world. The classic GG monogram is easy to spot no matter what piece it graces, but there is much more to the history of Gucci than just the logo. In 1921, Guccio Gucci started a leather goods company in Florence and within a few years, sophisticated shoppers were turning to the house of Gucci for their luxury goods. The horsebit icon, which is just as recognizable as the GG monogram, was an idea that stemmed from the many horse-riding aristocrats Guccio came to know in Italy. The brand continued to grow and expand to the massive and well-respected design house it is today, but now Gucci wants to turn back to its roots and share more of the company history by reflecting on the Gucci Icons.
While taking a stroll back through time to see the iconic items that make the brand what it is today, three iconic handbags stand out: the Stirrup, the New Bamboo, and the Jackie. Along with that, we have a gallery of imagery throughout Gucci’s history, from the early 1930s to today.
The design has not changed much since the inception of this bag, and the Gucci New Bamboo Top Handle Bag remains a classic. While other brands attempt to bring touches of bamboo into their lines, Gucci is the only designer that does it tastefully and without a note of kitsch. I immediately narrowed in on this cherry red crocodile version with light gold hardware. Not only is this exotic bag delightful, but it’s also the perfect hue to work with fall trends. Price is $14,900 via Gucci.
Oh, I am so obsessed with this version of the Gucci New Jackie Diamante Bag! Of course the Jackie bag is named after none other than the classic beauty Jacqueline Onassis. The bag is ladylike and timeless and meant to be carried for years. I’m really digging the light beige and metallic gold bi-color diamante leather along with the bamboo and tassel detail. Price is $3,250 via Gucci.
The Gucci Stirrup is inspired by an iconic model from 1975, and features a rigid frame style that showcases beautiful construction and workmanship. There are also soft versions, which gives the body of the bag more slouch, but I am really drawn to the structured option. This bag is an instant wardrobe staple and can easily be dressed up or down for work or play. Price is $3,600 via Gucci.
Let’s start the journey through the iconic archives by taking a look at Gucci luggage from the 1930’s.
And all the way back into the 1940’s, you can see the Gucci Bamboo Bag. This white leather version has stood the test of time.
From the 1950’s, this is another Gucci archive desing, the Web Duffle Bag.
Now we take a look at the super iconic Gucci Jackie O’ Bag as seen on Jacqueline Onassis in the 1970’s.
Here is a version of the Gucci Jackie O’ Bag from the 1960’s…
and another with horsebit print from the 1970’s.
Jumping ahead to 1973, this shoulder bag with horsebit detail seems like it could be a current design today.
