Gucci 2013 Equestrian Collection

By Staff Report May 20, 2013

The House of Gucci has made fashion icons of the stirrup and bit. Now, as part of Cruise 2013 , Gucci is rolling out a new Equestrian Collection. Billed as “a contemporary tribute to the riding heritage that has  inspired the House for over 90 years through the timeless values of beauty, grace and nobility,” it features jackets, shirts, boots and breeches that can transition from arena to office.

The line features 15 pieces and a complement of accessories, all characterized by the distinctive symbols of the House: the Gucci Crest, the horsebit and the green-red-green web stripe.

Gucci creative director Frida Giannini began riding at age 6 and went on to train as a show jumper. She still rides on weekends at her country home, south of Rome, and is a presence on the Global Champions Tour summer circuit. She says the new capsule collection evolved from the wardrobe she custom crafted exclusively for international show jumping champion Edwina Tops-Alexander, who was the No. 1 GCT rider in 2011 and 2012, and who is sponsored by Gucci. Giannini has also been working closely with rider Charlotte Casiraghi, granddaughter of Grace Kelly and a GCT ambassador.

Gucci summarizes the line as follows: “Carrying forward the sporting glamour of the equestrian world, this multifunctional wardrobe combines highly technical items for the most challenging outdoor competitions with classic elegance, making it perfect for moments off the course as well. The clothing range comprises riding jackets and pants, shirts and polo tees, all interpreted in innovative and comfortable fabrics such as gabardine techno wool, tricotine bistretch, soft nylon down feather or technical felted jersey and piquet. The focused color palette features natural and classic tones like black, beige, sky blue and pure white, which underline the ever-lasting wearability.”

Founded in Florence in 1921 by Guccio Gucci, the company initially focused on luggage and travel accessories like gloves and belts, but by the 1930s Gucci found many of his clients were “local horse-riding aristocrats” looking for riding gear, so he emphasized the equestrian touches that are so well-known today. During the ‘50s, Gucci again found equestrian inspiration with the trademark green-red-green web stripe, derived from a traditional saddle girth. It became an instant success and another  hallmark of the brand.

Although Gucci has a long history with equine inspiration, it wasn’t until 2009 that it again began sponsoring equestrian events after a 20-year hiatus. The annual Gucci Masters show jumping competition is the brand’s flagship event.

The rollout of this new capsule collection marks a further return to the company’s creative roots. Included among the offerings are black riding boots embellished with the Gucci crest. A new jumping saddle handcrafted in black “Guccissima” leather is a highlight.

The collection also includes a black leather belt with Gucci web stripe and silver buckle and black nappa gloves. Capping things off are a black velvet-covered riding helmet, riding whip, saddle blanket and horse blanket. The finishing touch:  a silk foulard illustrated with whip motifs evoking the riding equipment.

All items available by order through Gucci boutiques or at www.gucci.com.

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