From Milan to Melbourne: A look at the history of Gucci

19 May 2017

Take a historical Melbourne building with a striking period aesthetic and pair it with one of the world’s most iconic fashion houses, and you have a match made in retail heaven.

The combination of heritage architecture and high-end design is fitting for a brand like Gucci, the renowned Italian brand, which resides on the ground floor of the T&G Building at 161 Collins Street.

Dotted with high-end fashion houses including Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton, the T&G building, built in 1928, is central to this luxurious fashion scene. Combine this street appeal with an abundance of delectable cafés and restaurants and it’s little wonder the ‘Paris End’ of Collins Street is recognised as Melbourne’s most sought after address.

Gucci was founded in 1921 in Italy by Guccio Gucci, who was inspired by his time working at the distinguished London Savoy Hotel to create a small leather goods and luggage company. In the years following, quintessential Gucci pieces were created including: the bamboo bag; accessories with horsebit detailing; and the famed loafer, which has since been displayed in New York’s Museum of Modern Art.

Flash forward to 2017, and fashion lovers are still devoted to Gucci’s classic staples, while also holding their breath for each new season’s collections. The Italian fashion house is currently led by creative director Alessandro Michele, and continues to churn out fashion “must haves” with the brand’s Princetown slippers, embellished bags and maximalist sunglasses all set to be winter staples for Melbourne’s most fashion-forward.

With their combined heritage, modern luxury appeal and launched merely years apart, it’s easy to see why the T&G Building and Gucci are the perfect pair within Melbourne’s ‘Paris End’ neighbourhood.

Cerise Ellen is a professional content creator and blogger with a passion for all things fashion, beauty and Melbourne. Stay up to date with the latest fashion, events and beauty trends with Cerise at ceriseellencherry.com @ccceriseee