#italian fashion brands

[the-case-studies]

Gucci: A Journey Through Triumph and Turmoil in Luxury Fashion

Humble Beginnings

Guccio Gucci, the founder of the renowned luxury brand, started his journey in his parents' straw hat shop.However, when the family business went bankrupt, he found himself penniless and in need of a fresh start.

Guccio moved to London, where he worked at the prestigious Savoy Hotel. There, he noticed the affluent guests carrying expensive luggage and wearing fine leather goods as symbols of status. This inspired him to dream of opening his own leather shop catering to high-end customers.

After serving in World War I, Guccio returned to Italy with a wealth of knowledge about the leather goods industry. In 1921, he opened a small shop in Florence. As demand for his unique designs grew, he expanded his operations by opening a workshop and hiring employees. Despite financial struggles, Guccio taught his sons the intricacies of the business. With their encouragement, he expanded to Rome, Milan, and eventually New York City.

Image credit : https://www.vecteezy.com/vector-art/23871111-gucci-logo-brand-clothes-with-name-symbol-design-fashion-vector-illustration

Family Feuds and Expansion

The history of Gucci is marked by family turmoil and power struggles. Guccio's sons inherited the company after his death, but conflicts over control of the brand soon emerged. The third generation of the Gucci family had different visions for the company's future. Tensions escalated when Maurizio Gucci married Patricia Regiani against his father's wishes and took ownership of 50% of the company.

Maurizio's decision to eliminate Gucci's licensing deals initially cost the brand over $100 million. However, this move ultimately helped establish Gucci as an exclusive luxury brand. Meanwhile, Paulo Gucci's attempts to create his own fashion line were costly and unsuccessful. The family's constant drama kept them in the public eye but tarnished the brand's image.

The Downfall of Maurizio Gucci

Under Maurizio's leadership, Gucci faced significant challenges. He convinced the family to sell their shares to Invest Corp, and with the company now 50% owned by Invest Corp, Maurizio implemented major changes.

He aimed to make Gucci an exclusive brand for the wealthy by reducing the number of stores, cutting the accessories line, and eliminating the classic GG logo.

While some of his decisions did elevate Gucci's status, the company began losing $30 million annually. Unable to pay salaries or suppliers, Gucci was on the brink of bankruptcy. Invest Corp, growing nervous, suggested appointing a new CEO. Maurizio refused, leading Invest Corp to buy out his 50% share for $150 million. Although Maurizio's predictions eventually came true and the brand's fortunes turned around, it was too late for him. In a tragic turn of events, he was murdered by a hitman hired by his ex-wife, Patricia Reggiani, who was later imprisoned.

The Tom Ford Era and Beyond

After the tumultuous period of family control, Gucci entered a new era under the creative direction of Tom Ford. By 1996, Gucci's sales had nearly doubled from $263 million to $500 million. With the Gucci family no longer involved, the brand was free from internal power struggles. Invest Corp capitalized on this success, making Gucci a publicly traded company and reaping a $2 billion profit from their investment.

However, in 1997, a drop in Gucci's stock price, coupled with an economic crisis in the Japanese luxury market, created an opportunity for LVMH to buy shares at a discount. Bernard Arnault, CEO of LVMH and known for his aggressive acquisition strategies, saw potential in Gucci.

The iconic Tom Ford and Domenico De Sole duo eventually resigned from the company in 2004. Despite this, Gucci has continued to thrive, becoming one of the most popular luxury brands worldwide, with over 500 stores and about 50 million followers on Instagram. The brand's journey from humble beginnings to global dominance is a testament to its enduring appeal and resilience.

[dippedanddripped]

ICEBERG Fall Winter 2024 co-ed show

[margaretcruzemark]

Amber Valletta by Glen Luchford for Prada Spring 1998

[toyastales]

Versace Menswear

[meeelis]

Dolce&Gabbana, 1992

[ilromagnollo84]

Georgina Grenville

Gucci Fall/Winter 1997 98

By Tom Ford

[kharacore]

@/thegrotesquearchive

[fashionbooksmilano]

Scarpe da favola

Calzature italiane da sogno

prefazione di Lorenzo Cantoni, testi di Lucia del Pasqua, illustrazionidi La Fille Bertha

Assocalzaturifici, 2022, 176 pagine, 23,5x28,5cm

euro 50,00

email if you want to buy booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

il libro “SCARPE da favola”, edito da Assocalzaturifici e presentato a MICAM Milano 95 dal 19 al 22 febbraio 2023. In questo volume, le favolose calzature di 95 brand italiani di calzature sono le protagoniste. Organizzato in 3 capitoli, ciascuno dedicato ad una fiaba di #micamtales – MICAM in Wonderland, MICAM Glass Slipper e MICAM of OZ -, il libro raccoglie le fiabe riscritte da Lucia del Pasqua, le illustrazioni di La Fille Bertha, la prefazione del Professor Lorenzo Cantoni e le immagini delle 95 scarpe da favola. Il progetto editoriale ha trasformato le protagoniste femminili delle fiabe originali in veri e propri modelli del contemporaneo: Luce è una scrittrice-attivista, Gloria un’imprenditrice digitale, e Verdèlia un’idealista negoziante.

25/02/24

[psyworks]

Dolce & Gabbana | Fall Winter 2023/2024 | Menswear "Essenza"

Dolce&Gabbana stay true to their heritage with the #DGFW23 Men’s Fashion Show “Essenza”. A pure vision of the brand’s traditions dresses the man with elegance, precision and sensuality.The emotion of the new black volcanic hues, the tailored cut, the exceptional Italian craftsmanship of #DGFattoAMano in the precious embroideries and Sicilian inspiration. A collection that narrates the true…

[fina1chase]

nothing better than when a new album releases right at the same time of a new period of ur life

[deepdwnbodythurst]

https://www.vinted.it/donna/vestiti/jeans/altro/2825202503-jeans-armani-vintage

[malinishop]

Scarf Shawl Wrap

Enhance your look with the Malini versatile Scarf Shawl Wrap. Designed for any event, this wrap combines comfort and sophistication. Get yours today from The Malini Shop and don't miss out: https://malinishop.com/collections/sciarpe

[dippedanddripped]

Duvetica is the Italian Brand that celebrates a playful, Italian cool attitude, envisioning new (stylish) horizons to explore through colorful, distinctive designs. Created with unconventional people in mind and renowned for its iconic puffer jackets - each featuring water-repellent nylon and padded with soft goose down

[margaretcruzemark]

Angela Lindvall + Prada = L.F.E. (numero b2a1)

[fashionhubsworld]

Versace's Ultimate Black Dress: Chic Elegance Redefined |

Discover the epitome of chic elegance with Versace's ultimate black dress. Elevate your style with timeless sophistication and bold design. Perfect for any occasion, this iconic piece defines modern luxury.