Fall 2008 Fashion Review: Gucci

Images courtesy of Style.com

When I think of Gucci, I think of luxury, sexiness, sumptuousness – and maybe ladies blinged out to the max. I think this has a lot to do with my eighties upbringing, a time when sophistication and lavishing in the expensive reached new heights, with Gucci the call to arms of affluence in fashion. But looking at Gucci’s stunning AW08 collection, I am forced to reassess my former opinion. Frida Giannini has done a remarkable job taking a brand that had a high potential of becoming dated after its rise as the hallmark of opulence, and bringing into the new age of cultural assimilation and bohemian sensibility, all the while preserving that sense of sumptuousness that makes Gucci Gucci.

This collection is a perfect example of her accomplishment. Giannini has pulled from bohemian, folk and middle-eastern influences to create outfits that feel sleek, sexy, yet culturally relevant, well-traveled and ethnic. The result is what I like to think of as a “sexy matroshka” – outfits that feel smart, sophisticated, yet down-to-earth and traditionally aware.


Images courtesy of Style.com

Many of the ensembles in the collection have an almost uniform-like composition: black slacks, black boots, beautiful belt scarves, decadent waistcoats over blouses and turtlenecks that provide vivacious punches of color. The pieces all carry old-world embellishments that make them feel rooted in tradition – particularly the gypsy belt-scarves and the waistcoats, which vary from caftan-esque knits to carefully embroidered coats, finished with military buttons.


Images courtesy of Style.com

The footwear in this collection is particularly appealing. Many pieces incorporate long-fringed boots, which add a wonderful movement to the costumes. Others incorporate heavily studded ankle boots, which look both traditional in their decoration, but entirely new and unique in their construction. I am quite smitten with these beauties.



Incorporate Gucci’s style into your fall wardrobe by opting for form-fitting leggings, waistcoats and tops that pop with color. Wrap a large, ethnic scarf around your waist to add a dash of color, and don’t be afraid to pile on the belts. Finish the look with fringed boots, and chunky, ethnic gold jewelry. A no-nonsense black bag and dark sunglasses brings the whole thing together.