history of this great luxury brand

Discover the history of the luxury brand Gucci: an empire of power founded by Guccio Gucci that is surrounded by many controversies.

Gucci is one of the most iconic and desired luxury brands in the world. Founded in 1921 in Florence, by Guccio Gucci, it became a brand that has become synonymous with elegance, quality and with a timeless style. Over its more than 100-year history, Gucci has evolved from a small leather goods store to a global powerhouse in the world of luxury fashion, with a presence in more than 100 countries.

Under the leadership of talented designers like Tom Ford and Alessandro Michele, Gucci reinvented its image and won over a new generation of customers with its bold and innovative collections. With its unique combination of elements of Italian heritage, refined craftsmanship and modern style, Gucci continues to be one of the most desired and influential luxury brands in the fashion world.

Let’s find out a little more about Gucci? Stay with us!

How was the creation of Gucci?

Gucci was created in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, an Italian of very humble origins who was born in Florence. When he was young, worked as a doorman at the luxurious Savoy Hotel in London, where he discovered the elegance and luxury of the suitcases and purses of wealthy guests who passed by, which were made from leather and had an unparalleled finish. Inspired by this experience, Guccio decided to open his own leather accessories store in Florence, initially manufacturing only riding gear.

However, with the decrease in demand for these products due to the development of the automotive industry, Guccio has expanded its line to include bags, shoes and travel items. Therefore, he focused on the quality of materials and finishes, which resulted in the brand’s success in Italy. The company needed to open stores in Rome and Milan to meet the growing demand. In 1938, Gucci’s first major store was opened in Rome, a milestone in the brand’s international expansion.

Brand expansion

The expansion of the Gucci brand has been marked by significant growth and an increasingly strong global presence. Initially founded in Florence in 1921, Gucci expanded its business internationally in the 1950s and 1970sopening boutiques in iconic locations such as New York, Hollywood, London, Paris, Tokyo and Hong Kong.

By creating iconic products such as the Horsebit loafers, the Jackie O Bag and the Flora print contributed to solidifying the brand as a symbol of luxury and success, attracting a clientele of celebrities and influential political figures.

Finally, this luxurious brand also stood out for creating the logo of the two intertwined letters G, which were recognized as the trademark of Gucci, symbolizing the luxury and refinement associated with the brand. Gucci’s international expansion continues with the opening of stores in Rome, where the brand is located as an icon of fashion and sophistication.

Tom Ford on Gucci

Tom Ford was one of Gucci’s most iconic creative directors, leading the brand during a crucial period in its history. He took office in 1994, when Gucci was on the brink of bankruptcy, and led its reinvention and resurgence as one of the world’s most desirable luxury brands.

Ford relaunched Gucci icons, such as the bamboo handle bag and the Horsebit loafer, and created new hits, such as the Horsebit Clutch Bag, which became a celebrity phenomenon. He too introduced Gucci’s iconic green and red ribbonwhich to this day is one of the brand’s most sought-after details.

However, after ten years at the helm, Ford said goodbye to Gucci in 2004, in an unprecedented fashion show in Milan, highlighting your best creative moments in the company.

Controversies involving the Gucci family

The Gucci family has been at the center of several controversies throughout the brand’s history. One of the most notorious was the murder of Maurizio Gucci, former head of the company, by his ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani in 1995. Reggiani, nicknamed the “black widow”, was sentenced to 25 years in prison for ordering the murder. She was dissatisfied with the characterization of Lady Gaga, who plays her in the film “Casa Gucci”, without having had the consideration to meet her.

Another controversy involved the family’s reaction to the film’s production “Gucci House”. Patrizia, Aldo Gucci’s granddaughter, completely disapproved of the actors’ characterization as his family, saying they are simply stealing a family’s identity for profit. She also criticized the fact that the film portrayed private family matters. Gucci’s former creative director, Tom Ford, also spared no criticism of the film.

Recently, the Gucci brand was the target of controversy after a photo shoot by Harry Styles, which was criticized by some for allegedly referencing a controversial Balenciaga campaign, accused of pedophilia. Despite all these elements, Gucci remains one of the most desired and influential luxury brands in the world.

15 interesting facts about Gucci

1. Guccio Gucci made it clear his desire for no woman to manage the brand, in his will. A stance that was highly criticized, with accusations of misogyny.
2. In addition to this fact, the assets related to the company were left only for male children.
3. In 2019, Gucci entered the brand ranking most valuableaccording to Forbes magazine.
4. There is no family member who is a partner in the brand. At the moment, is under the responsibility of the Kering group.
5. In 1995, Maurizio Gucci was shot dead by an unidentified gunman. He suffered 3 shots in the back, and more in the head when he was already dead, on the ground.
6. On his behalf, Patrízia Reggiani was responsible for Maurizio’s death.
7. With her, he had two daughters, whose names are Allegra and Alessandra.
8. Patrizia was sentenced to 29 years in prison.
9. Even though she was released in 2016 for good behavior, she kept her distance from her daughters.
10. Brazil and Chile are the the only countries with Gucci stores in South America.
11. In 1990, the brand reinvented itself and invested many resources to create the image of the “Gucci woman”. Tom Ford was largely responsible.
12. Aldo Gucci was responsible for taking over the company’s business after his father’s death, the great mentor of the brand.
13. A scarf was designed especially for the Princess of MonacoGrace Kelly.
14. The family-inspired film was directed by Ridley Scott, and with singer Lady Gaga in the cast.
15. The sex scene with the singer and Actor Adam Driver it was improvised.

So, what do you think about finding out more about this luxury brand? Tell us! Enjoy and read too: History of Hermès, the brand that is synonymous with luxury and exclusivity

Sources: My Fashion Blomme, Cansei de ser Pop, Glamor