Due to materials rationing during WWII, Gucci began to substitute bamboo for leather. Discovering it could heat and bend Japanese bamboo, curving it to resemble the shape of a horse saddle, Gucci innovatively crafted bag handles out of it. The house released the first Gucci Bamboo Bag in 1947, then simply called by its product number 0633. The bag was instantly popular, endorsed and carried by celebrities like Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly through the ‘50s and ‘60s. 

Luckily, bamboo was not just relegated to Gucci’s archives, and it has been in use ever since the original bag was released. Tom Ford incorporated it into many of his daring, sexy designs. Most iconically, as the heel on a pair of stilettos. And, Frida Giannini released an entire New Bamboo Bag collection, updating the silhouette but keeping the handle. Again, celebrities flocked to it, as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Carla Bruni carried the revived style. 

Want to score the bag all the ‘IT’ girls have carried? The Gucci Bamboo Bag is still sold in stores. But, you can shop pre-loved and get the look for less. Browse our collection of Gucci Bamboo, which includes hobo bags, handbags, crossbody bags, and more!

Concerned about investing in a Gucci Bamboo Bag secondhand? Check out our Gucci guide. Our experts take you through our authentication process step-by-step, so you can shop worry-free.