Guccio Gucci founded this fashion empire in Florence, Italy in 1906. Originally, their core business was the production of leather products, particularly saddlery. By 1938, the House of Gucci had grown into a reputable company producing a wide variety of products, and they opened their first retail shop on the Via Condotti in Rome.

Gucci’s new line of handbags for the Fall/Winter 2005/2006 season is yet another spectacular addition to their fine line of designer accessories. My particular favorite from this collection is called “Braided Straps”. It is constructed from the beautiful patterned material Gucci has become so well known for, and is beige, ebony, and white in color. The trim and straps are crafted from fine white leather, and you guess it……the straps are braided! I am utterly in love with this bag.

I have also taken a liking to the “Bardot” model. It is a stunning beauty much like its namesake, Brigitte Bardot. This purse is crafted from warm, supple, dark brown leather with a wonderful pattern embossed into it. The metal clasp is very slick, and appears to be very durable. It comes with an 8 inch shoulder belt, and the trademark Gucci logo is stamped into all of the polished metal hardware.