Gucci Bamboo 1947 Ultimate Review: Sizes, Prices, What Fits, Pros & Cons

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Gucci Bamboo 1947 full review including sizes, what fits inside, pros & cons and more

Although Gucci’s first bamboo-handled bags came as the result of post-war leather rationings, these bags have become a status symbol for celebrities and fashion lovers alike. 

In particular, the Bamboo 1947 is well-loved for its hand-crafted bamboo handle, saddle-shaped body, and vibrant colors. To learn more about the 1947, see our complete guide here. By the end, you’ll know if this is an investment-worthy piece. 

Gucci Brand History 

Former luxury hotel porter and leather craftsman Guccio Gucci founded his label in Florence, Italy in 1921. For the first few years, Gucci sold mostly leather goods for travel. 

Later on, Gucci started to diversify into equestrian goods in order to serve the British aristocrats who were quickly becoming fans of the brand. 

Over the years, Gucci introduced items like woven canapa fabric, bamboo-handled bags, and green-red-green stripes that would later become synonymous with the brand.

Nowadays, the company is making strides to reduce its environmental impact by removing fur from its collections and pairing down its shows from five to two per year. 

Gucci Bamboo 1947 History 

Like many great inventions, Gucci’s first Bamboo Bag was the result of necessity. Indeed, it was the product of World War II materials rationing. 

Looking for a leather substitute, the brand discovered bamboo was a great stand-in. It could be heated and bent to create a curve handle resembling a horse saddle. 

The first Bamboo Bag was released in 1947. At that time, it was referred to simply by its product number, 0633. 

Within a few short years, the bag rose to popularity thanks to endorsements from celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly. 

In February 2022, Gucci’s Creative Director Alessandro Michele unveiled an updated model of the 1947 Bamboo Bag. The contemporary style comes in a variety of colors and sizes. It also includes two crossbody straps, one in leather and one webbed. 

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Gucci Bamboo 1947 Description 

Gucci’s 1947 Bamboo Bag is defined by its bamboo top handle. Shaping the bamboo requires the skill of master artisans who hand-bend, lacquer, and shine the handles to perfection. 

As an homage to Gucci’s equestrian heritage, the 1947 has a curvy, saddle-inspired shape. It opens with a flap and turn lock closure (also made of bamboo). Inside, there are card slots, a zippered slot pocket and a large open compartment. 

Newer versions of the bag come with two detachable shoulder straps, one webbed in the brand’s signature green-red-green stripe and one leather.