Gucci by Gucci: 85 Years of Gucci

From paparazzi photographs to full page spreads in Vogue, this aptly lavish pictorial history chronicles Gucci's evolution since its 1921 inception in Florence, Italy. The range of shots and locations tells the story of Gucci's ubiquitous place in popular culture, without the aid of captions or credits (both relegated to the end of the book). Aside from a lengthy introduction recapping Gucci history, the collection allows the images to speak for themselves. The mix of old and new Hollywood celebrities shows Gucci spanning time, from Audrey Hepburn, Liza Minelli and Clark Gable to Brad Pitt, Sarah Jessica Parker and Madonna. Taking out the distraction of celebrity, the vibrant Gucci ad campaigns focus on the decadence of the many shoes, handbags and jewelry lines. ""The Gucci Icons"" section points to ""The Bamboo,"" ""The Horsebit,"" ""The Web"" and ""The GG,"" staple logos and designs present in Gucci products through the years. Tying together the disjointed series is a spare timeline covering major events in the fashion house. After 400 pages, the show of luxury and opulence may overwhelm the uninitiated, but for fashion students and enthusiasts, this is a volume worth studying.