Crossing the famous Porto Vecchio bridge in Florence, and driving through the twists and turns of the tiny cobblestoned streets, we arrive at the headquarters of one of the most revered names in Italian fashion: Gucci. The brand is synonymous with stylish clothes and accessories, dotted with the famous signature of the entwined Gs and the blue, green and red stripe.
Under a glittering chandelier, with giant golden teddy bear statues and tiny thrones for the children, this first collection is already being feted as a success. With clear designs that hold together in a beautifully cohesive way, from the soft baby knits with the cutest of monogrammed slippers to the sporty look for boys, with blazers, jeans and knitwear combining for casual and effortless chic. Team it with a Gucci trilby and trainers and what could look cooler?
For the girls, there were pretty floral prints as well as a nod to one of the strong themes of the season: nautical blue and white. There was also a fabulous selection of footwear, from strappy sandals to the traditional soft suede driving pump in lavender and other delicate hues. Our favourite find was the cute little jelly shoes, in a rainbow array of colours. At first glance, it seemed like there was nothing exceptional to distinguish the jelly shoe from any other. But then, turn it over and you'll see that, as your toddler walks in the sand, he'll be leaving a perfect little trail of Gucci marks that will set him streets ahead in the style stakes of all his other beach buddies.
We left clutching our tasteful little white Gucci gift bags, tied perfectly with Gucci ribbon. Inside, a keyring starring the Gucci bear.
