Last Updated:

2024-03-01 00:42:25

Gucci

Italian luxury fashion house

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Italian luxury fashion house

Gucci, founded in 1921 in Florence, Italy, offers handbags, ready-to-wear, footwear, and accessories. It became a global brand under Aldo Gucci's leadership. After family conflicts, Gucci was acquired by PPR in 1999, now known as Kering. As of 2023, Gucci operates 538 stores, with €9.9 billion in sales, under CEO Jean-François Palus and creative director Sabato De Sarno.

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1881-03-26

Birth of Guccio Gucci

Guccio Gucci, the Italian craftsman and founder of the luxury fashion brand Gucci, was born on March 26, 1881.

1890

Discovery of Luxury Luggage

Guccio Gucci is believed to have discovered luxury luggage in the late 1890s while working at the London Savoy Hotel, a renowned destination for stylish travelers.

1897

Guccio Gucci Found Work at Savoy Hotel

In 1897, Guccio Gucci found work at London's prestigious Savoy Hotel as a bellboy. He was inspired to create his company by the luxurious suitcases and trunks carried by the aristocrats staying at the hotel.

1902

Guccio's Return to Florence

In 1902, Guccio returned to Florence with a new vision for his life's work, drawing inspiration from his family heritage. He began working as a leather goods craftsman for Franzi, a prestigious luggage company favored by the wealthy, including royalty and nobility.

1905

Birth of Guccio's Sons Aldo, Vasco and Rodolfo

Between 1905 and 1912, Guccio and his wife, Aida, welcomed their sons Aldo, Vasco, and Rodolfo into the world.

1921

Gucci

Gucci, established in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, is an Italian luxury brand renowned for its fashion and leather goods.

1921-11-26

Opening of Gucci's First Leather Goods Store

In November 1921, Guccio Gucci opened his eponymous leather goods store on Via della Vigna Nuova in Florence, Italy, marking the beginning of the iconic Gucci brand.

1921-12-14

Founding of the House of Gucci

In December 1921, the house of Gucci was founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence, Italy, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would lead to its global recognition.

1922

Gucci Leather Business Started Operations in Florence

In 1922, Guccio Gucci fulfilled his dream of opening his own shop by starting a Gucci leather business in Florence, with the encouragement of his wife Aida and an investor named Calzoni.

1935

Gucci Develops Diamante Print

In response to the shortage of leather, Gucci developed the Diamante print using woven hemp from Naples, featuring small interconnected dark brown diamonds on a tan field. This innovative print became a signature of Gucci and was later expanded to include leather and canvas products.

1937

Launch of Gucci handbags

In 1937, Gucci launched its handbags, marking a significant milestone in the brand's history.

1938

Expansion of Gucci Business

In 1938, three of Guccio's sons joined the business, and Gucci opened another store in Rome's Via Condotti, marking the expansion of the company's footprint across the globe in later years.

1947

Creation of Gucci Bamboo Bag

In 1947, two years after the war, Gucci artisans discovered that Japanese bamboo perfectly fits into their remarkable ideas for alternatives. They used patented burnished bamboo for bag handles and created a timeless product that defined and solidified its image as a luxury label.

1948

Birth of Maurizio Gucci

Maurizio Gucci is born to Rodolfo and Alessandra, laying the foundation for his future involvement in the renowned Gucci fashion empire.

1951

Opening of the First Milan Store

In 1951, Rodolfo opened the first Milan store on Via Montenapoleone, marking a significant milestone in the company's history.

1952

Launch of the Gucci loafer

The iconic moccasins, known as the Gucci loafer, were introduced in 1952, marking a significant milestone in the brand's footwear line.

1953-01-02

Death of Guccio Gucci

Guccio Gucci, the founder of the Gucci brand, passed away on January 2, 1953, in Milan, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to shape the fashion industry.

1953-03-02

Death of Guccio Gucci

Just 15 days after the opening of Gucci's first store in the US, Guccio Gucci passed away at the age of 72 in Milan, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the business to his sons.

1955

Trademark Registration

The Gucci name was officially registered as a trademark in 1955, solidifying its brand identity and legal protection.

1959

Relocation of Gucci Boutique

In 1959, the Gucci Boutique in Rome relocated to via Condotti, marking a significant move for the company.

1960

New York Store Moves to Fifth Avenue

In 1960, the New York store relocated to a prestigious address on Fifth Avenue, positioning itself next to the St. Regis Hotel at 55th Street.

1961

Stores Opened in London and Palm Beach

In 1961, stores opened in London and Palm Beach, and the bag that Jacqueline Kennedy was seen with was renamed the Jackie, which would be relaunched in 1999 in many colors and variations to great success, opening the era of the Gucci 'It' bag.

1963-03

Opening of Gucci's first French store in Paris

In March 1963, Gucci established its presence in France by opening its first store near Place Vendôme in Paris, solidifying its position as a prominent international luxury brand.

1964

Introduction of the double-G logo

The iconic double-G logo, which became synonymous with Gucci's brand identity, was introduced in 1964, adorning belt buckles and various accessory decorations.

1966

Grace Kelly receives special floral scarf from Gucci

In 1966, the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly, received a special floral scarf from Gucci as a gift. The scarf, known as Flora, was designed by artist Vittorio Accornero and printed with 43 different types of flowers, insects, and plants in 37 colors, making it one of the finest designs in Gucci’s history.

1968-09

Opening of Gucci shoe boutique in the St Regis Hotel, New York

In September 1968, Gucci opened a shoe boutique in the prestigious St Regis Hotel in New York.

1968-10

Opening of Gucci's store on Rodeo Drive

In October 1968, Gucci expanded its presence in the United States by opening a store at 347 Rodeo Drive, attracting numerous Hollywood stars and contributing to the brand's global recognition.

1968-11

Opening of Gucci store in Beverly Hills

In November 1968, Gucci expanded its presence by opening a new store in the affluent area of Beverly Hills.

1969

Launch of Gucci Boutique by Giorgio

Giorgio, the son of Aldo, sparked the first family feud by launching Gucci Boutique on his own, which was reabsorbed by the family group in 1972.

1970

Launch of Rolls-Royce luggage set and partnership with AMC

In 1970, Gucci made a significant move by launching a Rolls-Royce luggage set and partnering with American Motors Corporation (AMC) to create the Gucci version of the AMC Hornet, marking the brand's foray into the automotive industry.

1972

Gucci opens clothing store on Fifth Avenue

Around 1972, Gucci established a dedicated clothing store at 699 Fifth Avenue in New York, marking a significant milestone in the brand's expansion.

1974

Gucci Stores Expansion in Hong Kong

In 1974, Gucci expanded its presence in the East by opening a store in Hong Kong, furthering its global reach.

1975

Launch of Gucci's First Fragrance

Gucci launched its first fragrance in 1975, marking the beginning of a successful line of scents for the company.

1977

Opening of the Gucci Galleria in Beverly Hills

In 1977, Gucci established the Gucci Galleria in its Beverly Hills store, creating a private art gallery reserved for premium clients, showcasing the brand's commitment to luxury and exclusivity.

1980

Paolo's Lawsuit Against Family Members

In 1980, Paolo filed a US$ 13.3 million lawsuit against his father, uncle Rodolfo, his brothers Giorgio and Roberto, and cousin Maurizio, accusing them of assault during a board of directors meeting. This legal action came after Paolo was sidelined from the family business.

1981

Gucci's First Ready-to-Wear Show

In 1981, Gucci showcased ready-to-wear clothing for the first time at the Sala Bianca in Florence, featuring the iconic Flora print.

1982

Gucci receives legal SpA designation

In 1982, Gucci obtained the legal SpA designation, signifying its transition to a public company. The leadership eventually shifted to Rodolfo Gucci.

1983-05

Death of Rodolfo Gucci

In May 1983, Rodolfo Gucci died, and his son Maurizio Gucci inherited his father's majority stake in the company.

1984

Domenico De Sole becomes president of Gucci America

In 1984, the lawyer Domenico De Sole took on the role of president at Gucci America, marking a significant change in the company's leadership.

1985

Inclusion of the Gucci loafer in the New York Moma's permanent collection

In 1985, the iconic Gucci loafer was recognized for its cultural significance and added to the permanent collection of the New York Museum of Modern Art (Moma), solidifying its status as a timeless fashion icon.

1986

Aldo's Tax Evasion and Imprisonment

In 1986, Aldo, Paolo's father, pleaded guilty to evading over US$ 7 million in taxes, which led to him being imprisoned for a year. This event had significant implications for the Gucci family and the fashion house.

1987

Investcorp's Investment in Gucci

Investcorp, a Bahrain-based investment company, initiates a significant investment in Gucci by acquiring as many shares as possible.

1988

Purchase of Aldo and Sons' Share by Investcorp

In 1988, Bahrain-based Investcorp acquired Aldo and his sons' share of the Gucci company.

1989-11

Hiring of Dawn Mello as Gucci's executive vice president and chief designer

Dawn Mello was hired in November 1989 as Gucci's executive vice president and chief designer.

1990

Tom Ford Hired to Oversee Women’s RTW at Gucci

In 1990, American designer Tom Ford is appointed to oversee women's ready-to-wear at Gucci, marking the beginning of a transformative era for the brand under his creative leadership.

1991

Relocation of Gucci headquarters to Milan

In 1991, Gucci's headquarters were moved from Florence to Milan.

1993-09

Maurizio Gucci Sold His Remaining Interest to InvestCorp

In September of 1993, Maurizio Gucci sold his remaining interest in the company to InvestCorp after facing legal battles.

1994

Tom Ford Becomes Creative Director

Tom Ford was promoted from prêt-à-porter designer to creative director, playing a crucial role in rescuing the company from a time of family turmoil and company turnover.

1995-03-27

Assassination of Maurizio Gucci

Maurizio Gucci was assassinated in front of his office in Milan. The identity of his killer remained a mystery for nearly two years, until it was revealed that his ex-wife Patrizia Reggiani had hired a hit man through her spiritual adviser to end his life.

1996-06-04

Registration of Gucci.com Domain

On June 4, 1996, the 5 letter internet domain Gucci.com was registered in the name of Guccio Gucci S.P.A. This domain has become synonymous with luxury, fashion, and style, making it one of the most well-known fashion logos in the world.

1998-06

LVMH amasses Gucci shares

Between June 1998 and February 1999, LVMH chief Bernard Arnault started acquiring Gucci shares, ultimately reaching a stake of 34.4 percent through a series of transactions.

1999-01

LVMH's Ownership in Gucci Group NV

By January 1999, LVMH reached 34% ownership in Gucci Group NV, leading to a power struggle and subsequent tension in the fashion world.

1999-02

LVMH attempts Gucci takeover

LVMH chief Bernard Arnault attempted a takeover of Gucci, but the attempt was eventually foiled.

1999-03

Pinault's Group Purchase of Gucci

In March 1999, François Pinault's group bought out 40% of Gucci at $75 a share, leading to a decrease in LVMH's shares and the beginning of a cold war between LVMH and the new Gucci-PPR coalition.

1999-07

Opening of Gucci Store in Amsterdam

In July 1999, Gucci opened a new store in Amsterdam on Hooftstraat.

2000-07

Opening of Gucci Store in Paris

In July 2000, Gucci inaugurated a new store in Paris on rue Royale.

2000-11

Opening of Gucci Store in Duesseldorf

In November 2000, Gucci opened a new store on Koenigsallee in Duesseldorf.

2000-12

Gucci's Purchase of Alexander McQueen's Couture House

In December 2000, Gucci bought 51% of Alexander McQueen's couture house, sparking a feud with LVMH as McQueen was also the creative designer of LVMH's Givenchy at that time.

2001-09-10

LVMH forces full takeover of Gucci by PPR

Following PPR's purchase, LVMH compelled its French rival to initiate a complete and equitable acquisition of Gucci, which was successfully executed on September 10, 2001.

2002-09-02

Opening of Gucci Paris Boutique on 60 avenue Montaigne

On September 2, 2002, Gucci opened another Paris Boutique on 60 avenue Montaigne, the same location where Christian Dior started his career as a fashion assistant.

2003

Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole's Departure from Gucci-PPR

By the end of 2003, Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole made it official that they would not renew their contract with Gucci-PPR, signifying a major change in the leadership of Gucci.

2004

Departure of Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole from Gucci

In 2004, Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole left Gucci.

2005

Giannini appointed creative director of women’s ready-to-wear

In 2005, Giannini was appointed as the creative director of women’s ready-to-wear at Gucci.

2006

Licensing Agreement with P&G for Fragrances

In 2006, Gucci signs a long-term licensing agreement with P&G for the production and worldwide distribution of its fragrances.

2007-03-27

Opening of Gucci store in Brussels

On March 27, 2007, a sophisticated Gucci store was opened in Brussels, adding to the brand's global presence.

2008-02-20

Opening of Gucci 5th Avenue store

The new Gucci 5th Avenue store, opened on February 20, 2008, marked the establishment of the world's largest Gucci flagship store, showcasing the brand's prominence in the fashion industry.

2009

Patrizio di Marco joined Gucci as president and CEO

In 2009, Patrizio di Marco, head of group-owned Bottega Veneta, became the president and CEO of Gucci, succeeding Lee.

2010

Giannini's Proposal for Gucci

Giannini proposed clothes with a functional chic and a hefty dose of the essential house glamour. The designer and di Marco, who grew to become partners in life, emphasized the brand’s Italian craftsmanship, archival iconography and jet-set lifestyle.

2011-02-23

Gucci Adapts to League of Nations Embargo

In February 2011, Gucci found alternatives to imported leather and other materials as a result of a League of Nations embargo against Italy, showcasing its resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.

2011-09-28

Opening of Gucci Museum in Florence

On September 28, 2011, the Gucci Museum was inaugurated in the Palazzo della Mercanzia in Florence, celebrating the rich heritage and influence of the iconic fashion house.

2013

PPR acquires majority stake in Gucci

In 2013, PPR acquired a majority stake in Gucci, prompting a series of public legal confrontations. This event marked a significant change in the ownership and management of Gucci.

2014-12

Marco Bizzarri named CEO of Gucci

In December 2014, Marco Bizzarri, the former CEO of Bottega Veneta, was named CEO of Gucci with the task of reversing Gucci's declining sales and giving a new impetus to the brand.

2015-01

Alessandro Michele becomes Gucci's creative director

In January 2015, Alessandro Michele was promoted as the creative director of Gucci, just two days after showcasing a new androgynous aesthetic for the men's fall 2015 season.

2015

Creative Director Alessandro Michele's Influence on Gucci

Since 2015, under the guidance of Creative Director Alessandro Michele, Gucci has been known for its innovative designs and has solidified its image as a top fashion brand.

2015-02

Michele's First Womenswear Collection

A month after the menswear collection, Michele debuted his first womenswear collection on the Milan runway, which was highly successful and well-received.

2016-09

Inauguration of Gucci Hub in Milan

In September 2016, Gucci inaugurated the Gucci Hub, its new Milan headquarters, built in the former Caproni aeronautical factory.

2017-07

Launch of Gucci Décor

In July 2017, Gucci announced the launch of Gucci Décor, marking the brand's entry into the home decoration segment.

2018-04

Inauguration of Gucci ArtLab

In April 2018, Gucci inaugurated the ArtLab, a center of innovation outside of Florence in Italy, where new products are developed and tested.

2018-04-16

Iconic Gucci Handbags You Should Be Investing In

Gucci, a popular Italian fashion house, is known for its iconic handbags that are considered valuable investments in the fashion world.

2018-06

Revenue Target Set by Bizzarri

In June 2018, Bizzarri set a 10 billion euro revenue target for Gucci, prompted by the brand's growth exceeding 35 percent for five consecutive quarters.

2019-12

Gucci's sales reach 9.6 billion euros

In 2019, Gucci's sales reached 9.6 billion euros, reflecting the brand's significant financial success.

2020-07-24

Gucci Pays Tribute to Princess Diana with Reinvented Bamboo Handle Tote

Gucci released a new version of the Bamboo Handle Tote bag as a tribute to Princess Diana. The bag is a reinvented design inspired by the late princess's iconic style.

2020-11

Ouverture of Something That Never Ended

Michele directed a series of seven episodes for the collection 'Ouverture of Something That Never Ended' in November 2020, featuring artists like Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, and Florence Welch.

2020-12

Launch of Gucci stores on Tmall

In December 2020, Gucci launched two stores (fashion and beauty) on Tmall following an agreement between Kering and Alibaba.

2021

Release of Gucci Documentary

A documentary released in 2021 aims to answer popular questions from fans of the luxury designer label Gucci. It explores significant moments in the designer's life and showcases iconic shoes that caught the attention of Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn.

2021-11-24

Premiere of House of Gucci Movie

The movie 'House of Gucci' is set to premiere in theaters on November 24. It features Lady Gaga as Patrizia Reggiani, Adam Driver as Maurizio Gucci, and Al Pacino as Aldo Gucci.

2022-11-23

Alessandro Michele leaves post of creative director of Gucci

On November 23, 2022, Alessandro Michele left the post of creative director of Gucci, marking a significant change in the brand's leadership.

2023-01-28

Sabato de Sarno appointed as creative director of Gucci

On January 28, 2023, it was announced that Sabato de Sarno would be Gucci's new creative director, with his debut collection receiving mixed reviews.

2023-02-08

Purchase of Gucci Handbags

A customer shares a positive experience of purchasing Gucci handbags from essenceofluxurys, highlighting the quality and service provided.

2023-12-20

Gucci Fashion Legacy

Gucci has established an enduring fashion legacy that has left a significant mark on the fashion industry.