The Gucci Years

Gucci's bamboo handle dates to the 1940s, when materials were scarce after the war and the house turned to bamboo for its handles. The bags here carry that handle in leather and GG canvas, in totes, hobos, a Diana and a Banana Hobo.

 

Among the eight in this grid, I would look first at the Gucci Green Original GG Canvas Bamboo Braided Handbag, the Gucci Blue Original GG Canvas Bamboo Bermuda Bag and the Gucci Black GG Canvas Bamboo Banana Hobo.

 

The curve of the handle is the detail to check. For another view of the classics, see The Icons Worth Revisiting.

The horsebit comes from Gucci's 1950s loafers, and it has been on bags ever since. The horsebit, Dressage and chain styles here are older than the current line and sit differently on the body.

 

Among the eight in this grid, I would look first at the Gucci White Original GG Canvas Horsebit Tote Large, the Gucci Red Wool Jackie Hobo and the Gucci White Original GG Canvas Bamboo Peggy Hobo Medium.

 

I would wear a horsebit chain bag with tailoring. For the broader picture of how these codes spread, read The Fashion History Edit.

GG canvas defines Gucci in the 2000s, and the Abbey, Pelham, Scarlett and Boston shapes show it best. Tom Ford led Gucci's design until 2004, and the Abbey Pocket styles in this edit are listed as early 2000s in their descriptions.

 

Among the eight in this grid, I would look first at the Gucci Original GG Canvas D-Ring Abbey Tote Large, the Gucci Purple Original GG Canvas Vintage Web Boston Medium and the Gucci Brown Crystal Canvas D-Ring Abbey Tote.

 

For the creative directors who shaped the period, see The Archive Is Calling.

Gucci also made the GG pattern in crystal canvas, lurex, denim and velvet. These are the versions that surprise, because the monogram suddenly looks like evening wear. Among the eight in this grid, I would look first at the Gucci Brown GG Denim Abbey Tote, the Gucci Blue GG Velvet Round Shoulder Bag Small and the Gucci Brown Original GG Canvas Lurex Sukey Tote.

 

A lurex tote is easy to wear and stands out from a distance. For more dressy options, see The Art of the Evening Bag.

Gucci evolved from bamboo to horsebit to the monogram, and each creative director added a layer to the language. Looking at the bags in order is the easiest way to understand it.

 

Start with the part you like best, whether it is the handle, the buckle or the canvas, and carry it often. The house has always rewarded people who commit to one detail.