MILAN, Jun 28, 2006/ FW/ --- In her debut collection for Gucci, Frida Giannini went back 40 years and mined the hippie culture to created slim, sharply tailored silhouettes that are modish and chic.

To emphasize the point, models wore longish hair, about the same length when the Beatles were becoming popular. Paisley prints, tiny buttons and smocking on shirts – elements of the hippie garbs during the era were retrofitted to fit within the contemporary silhouettes of the 21st century.

Trousers were snug fitting, even tight, tapering at the bottom. Solids in bright colors, graphical prints and stripes, again in-tune with the flower movement of the 1960s graced the runway.

And Gianni’s best homage to the flower children, the floral laser cut shirts that hug the torso and used as formal wear worn underneath suits, tuxedos and smoking jackets.

Suit jackets were cut straight on the shoulders and closes with either one or two buttons, sometimes double breasted. White collars on striped shirts were accessorized with paisley or polka dot ties. They were definitely influenced by 1960s San Francisco, where the hippie movement started.

Still, there was a mod feel to it, as in 1960s London. After all, that’s the home city of the Beatles after they left Liverpool. Outer jackets were given shoulder boards and lots of pockets (remember Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band?). Fabrics are luxe – leather or python.

It’s a successful debut; the echo boomer generation was introduced to their parent’s growing up years. This is a collection that bridges the generation gap.

And, don’t forget the accessories, which is truly Giannini’s forte – totes and messenger bags, these are must have for the Spring 2007.

Gucci

Gucci

Gucci

Gucci