Gucci Turns 70: The Heritage Collection Pays a Stylish Tribute

In 2008, the world-renowned fashion house, Gucci, commemorated its 70th anniversary with the unveiling of its all-new Heritage Gucci handbag collection. Timed to coincide with the newly renovated Gucci store in Rome, the distinctive line is reminiscent of the European design icon’s rich legacy.

In creating this head-turning Gucci handbag line, creative director Frida Giannini has returned to some of the brand’s original design principles. Gucci enthusiasts will recognize some familiar traits in these classic Gucci purses. The Heritage bags are covered in a vintage print, called Rinascimento, which made its debut in the 1950s. This Renaissance-inspired motif boasts an elaborate interplay of deep green and red florals, crowns, and thorny spires, set against an ivory background to create a dramatic contrast. The crocodile leather trim is dyed a rich cognac shade, infusing these Gucci purses with a distinctive sophistication.

Although these Gucci handbags have their roots in long-standing design principles from decades past, they also hint at a leap ahead in fashion tendencies. Frida herself has described the Heritage line as “a perfect match to the essence of the city…rich in tradition, yet modern in spirit.”

The Heritage Gucci handbag line isn’t limited to the lyrical florals of the Rinascimento design. Gucci lovers can also choose from exotic leather versions, including crocodile, ostrich, and python. The rich colors range from smooth burgundy to chocolate brown, illustrating the characteristic sumptuousness of Gucci. The collection includes five unique styles in all, including The Bamboo and The Jackie. The crocodile accents are applied differently for each style, covering different parts of the bag.

In addition to presenting a premium design concept that celebrates the Gucci brand’s timeless style, the Heritage line also offers plenty of practicality and function. The five bags in the series offer spacious main compartments and convenient zippered pockets that accommodate anything you throw into them. The sturdy leather straps allow for easy, comfortable portability. Gleaming brass hardware is made from durable precious metals, ensuring many years of handsome service while adding a beautiful embellishment.

Authentic Heritage Gucci handbags can only be purchased at the newly renovated Rome store in Via Condotti and at the Saks Fifth Avenue in New York, although high-quality Gucci replica purses can be purchased at a fraction of the cost from reputable online sellers.

In tandem with the unveiling of the Gucci Heritage collection, the fashion house’s new Rome store has been renovated to reflect a prestigious, luxurious appeal that makes artistic use of light and design. The newly revamped store pays homage to the iconic designer’s rich history and tradition. In addition to the classic Gucci purses that continue to generate a high level of demand today, the store also offers women’s and men’s apparel, accessories, perfumes, and high-end jewelry. There is also a designated area that displays limited-edition designs and specially prized items.

When it comes to exemplifying the timeless style, quality, and luxury that has marked the Gucci brand for the past 70 years, the Heritage collection of fine Gucci handbags does the job with grace and distinction.