GUCCI HERITAGE AT 5TH AVENUE

In conjunction with the greatly anticipated opening of Gucci 5th Avenue in New York in February 2008, Gucci is pleased to announce the debut of its first ever Heritage collection. Conceived by Creative Director Frida Giannini, Heritage is a one-of-a-kind accessories collection which pays tribute to the Italian brand’s history. Relying on Gucci’s skilled artisan techniques and its incomparable luxury goods expertise, Giannini has created a collection of five new handbags that represent the ultimate in the company’s high-end offerings, and available only in the 5th Avenue store.

Home for this very special collection is the ground floor of Gucci’s 5th Avenue flagship. A dedicated “Heritage Department”, flanked by a gold GG screen, is designed to function like an exhibition space, which features products on rotation, information on the brand as well as video installations. Archive pieces will also be showcased displaying iconic moments of Gucci’s history.

Creative inspiration for the Heritage project came from Gucci’s vast archives where Giannini resurrected several iconic handbag models as well as a striking vintage print called “Leonardo,” which is exclusive to the New York store. A dazzling blend of red, green and gold knots and flowers on a canvas background, the Leonardo print was first created in the 1950s. The date of inception aptly concurs with Gucci’s initial expansion into the US market and the opening of its first New York store in 1953.

“I loved this print the minute I saw it,” says Giannini of the Leonardo print. “It has that timelessness that makes it forever chic. I thought immediately of the new 5th Avenue store and our New York clientele who always want something unique and exclusive”.

Giannini has manipulated Leonardo to spectacular effect, marrying the playful canvas print with extremely precious skins that have been dyed in unusual shades of musk green, brown and rich taupe. Rich crocodile, ostrich or python are used on handles, sides, flaps and trims. The exotic skins add a decisively luxurious element, while their placement alongside the whimsical and feminine print provide a totally unique look. Some styles are entirely crafted in exotic skins, such as the oversized tobacco colored python handbag with an accordion pleat base and deep fold over pockets. Gucci’s luxury knowledge is powerfully displayed in these exquisitely crafted handbags, which feature supple skins colored to perfection.

The collection includes five different handbag styles, including the Jackie and the Bamboo. These classic models have all been interpreted in a modern light. Bamboo handles and clasps, artisan stitching, and subtle touches of gold hardware finish off the elegant look, while a special inside tag indicates the “Heritage” authenticity of the product.

A series of small leather goods makes a charming addition to the collection. Two classic wallet shapes are offered in both precious skins as well as the Leonardo print. Mini handbags, also in skin or print, can be clipped onto the larger handbags, making the perfect add-on accessory. Also included in the collection are a pump and an ankle strap sandal with bamboo detail in the heel and the Leonardo print on the insole.

To complete this exceptional offering, the collection also includes an elegant set of hard case crocodile luggage, including large and small suitcases, briefcases, and a watch case, which harks back to the grandeur of chic traveling essentials of the last century. Most notable is the large traveling trunk with drawers and hanging space, which is destined to be a collector’s item.

With its limited distribution and maximum expression of luxury, Gucci Heritage is destined for a selective clientele who demand exclusivity and the utmost in quality.