The history of Gucci

In 1921, Guccio Gucci opened a leather goods company and small luggage store in his native Florence. Having spent years working in London's Savoy Hotel, he had absorbed the refined aesthetic of English nobility, and introduces this sensibility in Italy through exclusive leather goods created and produced by the master craftsmanship of Tuscan artisans

In the 1940's faced with a shortage of standard materials during the difficult years of Fascist dictatorship in Italy, Gucci establishes itself as an enterprise synonymous with exceptional creativity and resourcefulness. The "Bamboo Bag" is introduced, becoming one of the first of Gucci's many iconic products. A favorite of royalty and celebrity alike, the bag is still available today.

During the 1950s, the trademark green-red-green web, which is derived from the saddle girth, becomes a great success and remains one of the most familiar identifiers of the brand. With stores opening in Milan and New York, Gucci starts to build a global presence as a symbol of modern luxury.

Guccio Gucci dies in 1953. His sons Aldo, Vasco, Ugo and Rodolfo take over the business.

Today, creative direction of Gucci is the responsibility of Frida Giannini and Gucci continues to explore its roots. "La Pelle Guccissima" - an entirely original, heat-printed signature leather - has been launched under Giannini’s direction, and is destined to become the label's next icon, expressing in its workmanship and impeccable quality a strength that is singularly Gucci's.