GUCCI HERITAGE AT CONDOTTI, ROME

To celebrate the unveiling of Gucci’s newly renovated Rome store in Via Condotti, Gucci is pleased to announce the debut of its unique Heritage collection. Designed by Creative Director Frida Giannini, Heritage is a one-of-a-kind accessories collection which pays tribute to the Italian brand’s rich 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 luxury product offering. Heritage will only be available at Rome’s Via Condotti store, and in the new 5th Avenue New York store, each of which have an exclusive iteration of the product.

Creative inspiration for this new project came from Gucci’s vast archives where Giannini resurrected several iconic handbag models as well as a striking vintage print called “Rinascimento,” which is exclusive to the Rome store. First produced by Gucci in the 1950s, Rinascimento is inspired by the rigorous beauty of Rennaissance motifs.

Deep red and dark green flowers, thorny spires and crowns dance across a creamy canvas background with striking effect.

Giannini has manipulated the Rinascimento print in an unusually modern way, marrying the playful canvas print with a precious, wine colored crocodile. In various models, the rich crocodile skin covers handles, sides, flaps and trims of handbags, complementing the whimsical print while adding an irresistible luxuriousness. “This classic print perfectly matches the essence of the city – both are rich in tradition, yet full of modern spirit,” explains Giannini.

Rome’s Heritage collection also offers handbags that are fashioned entirely in precious skins, such as ostrich, python and crocodile. Gucci’s luxury know-how is on powerful display in these exquisitely crafted bags which feature supple skins in deep, rich colors ranging from rust red to chocolate brown.

The collection includes five different hand bag models, including the Jackie and the Bamboo. These classic models have all been reconsidered in a modern light, receiving slight modifications for today’s consumers. Each handbag is made of incredible soft leather, features beautiful details and visibly exquisite craftsmanship. 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 scarf, as well as a series of small leather goods in exotic skins or the Rinascimento print, makes a charming addition to the collection. Two classic wallet shapes are offered in python, crocodile and ostrich as well as croc with print. Mini handbags, also in skin or print, can be clipped on to the larger bags, 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 Rinascimento print insole lining.

Giannini has also designed a special version of the Signoria watch, to be offered exclusively at the Rome store. With its horsebit gold bracelet and coral dial, this oversized yellow gold watch has a jewelry-like quality and makes a brilliant and discerning statement.

To complete this exceptional offering, the collection also includes an elegant set of brown crocodile hard case luggage, including large and small suitcases, briefcases, a watch case, a jewelry case and a beauty case. The extreme elegance and luxuriousness of these crocodile items are a nod to the grandeur of chic traveling essentials of the last century. Most notable is the large crocodile traveling trunk with drawers and hanging space which is destined to become a collector’s item.

Rome’s heritage collection is offered exclusively in Via Condotti 8 where a room separated by a gold GG screen has been created specifically to house it. Located on the ground floor, shoppers will be drawn into the unique space by a video installation which highlights iconic images of Gucci’s rich history. The Heritage Room is designed to function much like an exhibition in which limited edition exclusive product rotates in a dedicated space, and in which consumers can learn more about Gucci’s golden history. Product will change regularly, while framed text provides shoppers with information about the brand. Archive pieces, related to this project, will also be showcased displaying iconic moments of Gucci’s past.

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