The Gucci Bamboo Bag History: An Iconic Handbag from Resourcefulness
Gucci’s bamboo handle bag is one of the most unique handles out there. Many luxury handbag brands use leather straps or rolled handles.
But Gucci uses sturdier and harder materials with a stunning design, with a completely different look than other types of handles.
Let’s explore the Gucci bamboo bag history and its influence on other handbags.
Why bamboo on the Gucci bag?
Gucci started using bamboo on its bags in 1947 because of the leather shortage after WW2. At the time, bamboo was an accessible and durable material that could be bent into handles after being heated.
Alessandro Michele, Gucci's creative director, describes it, "Bamboo is one of nature's marvels, a material that has extraordinary physical and aesthetic qualities."
The Gucci Bamboo bag, originally known as the 0633 model, gained popularity quickly. It was even featured in a few films.
How are Gucci Bamboo handles made?
You might think using bamboo might be easier than using leather, but it has the same difficulty.
Bamboo without any defects is picked, then softened and worked over an open flame to be able to bend. Once it’s shaped, the handle is coated with a shiny coating and stitched onto the bag.
The Gucci Bamboo 1947
The Gucci Bamboo 1947, named after it was introduced, was initially known as its product number: 0633.
Shop for Gucci 1974 Bamboo bag
The bag’s shape, bamboo handles, and bamboo turn-lock closure made it unique compared to other luxury bags at the time.
From then on, Gucci incorporated the bamboo-style handles into its other handbags.
Other Gucci bamboo handbags
The other Gucci bamboo handbags include:
Gucci Diana
The Gucci Diana, originally called the Bamboo Handle Bag, became popular when it was seen with Princess Diana multiple times.
The Gucci brand renamed the bag in 2021 to honor her. And now the bag is a status symbol.
The bag itself is very rectangular with gold hardware, bamboo top handles, removable leather belts, and comes in three sizes. The modern Gucci Diana has an attachable strap and is made from different materials besides leather.
Various Gucci bags with bamboo handles:
Many Gucci handbags will occasionally replace their leather strap or rolled handles with bamboo on their many different types of handbags!
Shop for various Gucci Bamboo Handle Bags
From handbags, backpacks, totes, and even briefcases, these bamboo handles add a little fun and rarity.
Get preloved Gucci Bamboo handbags with WLD
From the Gucci Bamboo 1947 and others, you can get an affordable Gucci handbag with WeeklyLuxDrop.
Affordable pricing
Since the Gucci 1947 Bamboo bag has been discontinued, you can only find them preloved. And many other resellers will price this item between $1,200-$3,500!
But WeeklyLuxDrop will price this item $700-$900. We will provide the best deals on preloved luxury goods.
Japan’s strict authentication
WeeklyLuxDrop operates from Japan, a country with very strict anti-counterfeit laws and authentication practices.
From when we receive items to selling them, WLD’s internal team is also ensuring that our items to you are genuine.
Free international shipping
Who doesn’t live with free shipping? The prices you see are what you get. No extra fees, duties, or tariffs.
Plus, our customer service is checking to ensure your items will get to your door. That means helping with any paperwork for customs, asking where and why the package is stuck, etc.
Always feel safe with your luxury items with us.
Is the Gucci Bamboo bag discontinued?
The original Gucci Bamboo Bag from 1947 has been discontinued. But it was relaunched in 2022 as part of the Aria Collection.
But if you want one, consider a preloved Gucci 1947 Bamboo!
In closing
While Gucci’s bamboo handles came from being resourceful, they became part of their iconic bags. No other luxury bags have an alternative material for handles that stand out like bamboo.
Once you see one, it’s impossible to unsee this iconic handle.
Want to learn more about Gucci's discontinued bags? Here's a guide for you: Discontinued Gucci Bags to Know and We Want Back.