Cover The marble-clad façade of the Gucci boutique in Greenbelt
The marble-clad façade of the Gucci boutique in Greenbelt
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Gucci unveils a new, bolder and bigger boutique in Manila, and there are many reasons why you should go visit
A revamped all-marble façade marked by a varicoloured geometrical pattern that elegantly accentuates the brand’s logo welcomes guests to Gucci’s new post in Makati City. The 695 sqm boutique in Greenbelt 4, inherently illuminated by the light that bounces off the marble elements, houses the Italian brand’s array of luxury handbags, shoes, ready-to-wear, silks, jewellery, eyewear and watches. It is one of Gucci’s retail hubs in the Philippines, the other being Shangri-La Plaza in Mandaluyong City.
The marble floors that mirror the façade’s muted colour scheme and geometric patterns are inspired by designs in historic structures worldwide. At the same time, the hand-painted wood flooring with ornamental motifs reflects details from Gucci’s collections. Plush fabrics in softer tones decorate the walls, perfectly blending with the ivory boiserie, providing a muted backdrop to the showcased pieces. The minimalist lines and restrained colour scheme contribute to the refined and subtle allure of the surroundings.
Above The store offers a variety of Gucci favourites
The store offers a variety of Gucci favourites
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Visualised as a homey and cosy haven, the boutique has built-in displays resembling walk-in closets and newly crafted racks in traditional brass designs. Upon entrance, patrons are instantly lured to the Valigeria display, which shows Gucci’s travel line. In travel, Gucci finds its origins as part of a story that started in the late 1800s when a young Guccio Gucci travelled to London and worked as a porter at The Savoy Hotel. This milestone trip gave birth to Guccio’s artisanal luggage atelier, which he established in Florence in 1921.
The shelves at the Valigeria display at Greenbelt 4 are filled with some of Gucci’s most iconic leather and travel pieces–from the classic Savoy duffle bag and trolley to the reliable Horsebit 1955 shoulder bags in various colours, among many others. A station where you can have your Gucci items embossed with your initials is also available. Just a few steps up is a space dedicated to other timeless collections, such as the Diana handbag in different shades and sizes. Sneakerheads will also love a whole wall of Gucci’s most-coveted kicks.
Fit for a queen, the velvet armchairs and sofas beckon one to stay and appreciate Gucci’s timeless selections and fluffy monochrome wool rugs are placed for added oomph. The aesthetic interplay of elements sourced from different periods and locations is in sync with Gucci’s core narrative, culminating in a space that echoes class with a tinge of surprise.
Above Brass shelves lend the shopping space modern aesthetics
Brass shelves lend the shopping space modern aesthetics
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In line with Gucci’s pledge to adopt environmentally friendly and energy-efficient practices in its stores globally, the new boutique has been designed in adherence to LED guidelines and principles to foster and encourage energy efficiency. With this, Gucci promises an enjoyable and sustainable shopping experience.
Gucci’s fall-winter 2023 collection is expected to land at the Greenbelt 4 boutique this September. The collection connects the creative cultures that cross-pollinate the history of the House in an evocative but contemporary proposal. Not to be missed are the fresh takes on the rounded trapezoid chain bag adorned with the horse bit and interpreted in padded, shearling, crystal and contrast-leather manifestations. Honouring an archival icon, the Jackie bag appears in its original shape but is softened in construction and adapted in two-tone colours and GG-embossed leather. The classic Gucci loafer is elevated on rubber soles, snow boots initially designed for the Sixties ski collection re-emerge in wool, and GG canvas tacked up with horse bits. Kitten heels dominate square sandals, wide-shaft boots and tiger head-embellished sandals inspired by the Dionysus bag. Boxing boots and basketball sneakers inject the collection with a faint hint of sportswear.
Another thing to take note of is that this month, the new Creative Director, Sabato De Sarno, taking over from Alessandro Michele, is set to show his much-awaited debut fashion show. De Sarno worked in Valentino for 13 years and took on the responsibility of revamping and reenergizing the venerated brand. We are all eagerly awaiting his collection with much anticipation.
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Whether on assignment or not, Maritess is always on the lookout for off-the-beaten-path destinations as well as the yummiest finds in the Philippines and abroad. In 2020, she plunged into the black hole of Korean la la land. Follow her escapades at @matetreyes.
