WORDS BY STEPHEN YU
Nobody does the seventies quite like Gucci. Whilst Alessandro Michele's penchant for nostalgia has us all wishing we were children of pretty much every decade, it's the seventies that are the most natural bedfellow for the magical world of the modern-day 'Gooch'.
Sumptuous textures, loud florals and psychedelic rock'n'roll patterns coalesce with glittery metallics, iridescent neons, and structured yet loose disco tailoring and shirting. These are just a few of the seventies style references that make the perfect partner to the romantic luxury of Michele's reinvigorated Gucci.
So it's only right that Gucci’s latest timepiece takes inspiration from this era, and one of its defining countercultures. Meet The Grip, Gucci’s unisex watch inspired by the effortless cool of seventies skateboarding.
Here, we dissect its design and show you why it’s the perfect compliment for both the male and female seventies wardrobe:
IT'S HIP TO BE SQUARE
The Grip's distinctive square case with bevelled edge balances a clean yet eye-catching design with a subtly vintage aesthetic, making it one of Gucci's most timeless watches. Inspired by 70's skateboarding, the Grip gets its namesake from the way skaters feet seem glued to their boards, with the brushed stainless steel casing reminiscent of the grip tape seen on skate decks. For those after a gold Gucci watch, the Grip also comes in yellow gold.
BEFORE THERE WAS DIGITAL, THERE WAS ANALOG
Before Spotify, there was vinyl. Prior to Netflix and chill, it was drive-in movie theatres and backseat fumbles. Everyone knows that one vintage vinyl/watch/camera collector that always bores you with how it was better in the old days, but with the Gucci Grip you can see why. Rather than a bog-standard dial or LCD display, the Gucci Grip goes more retro than any watch has ever gone before with three rotary dial apertures for the time and date. Think Moog synthesiser dials or your gran's bathroom scales meets Gucci wristwatch.
A STRAP FOR EVERY OCCASION
With interchangeable quick-release straps, the Grip is easily the most versatile of Gucci timepieces. For classic dress watch aesthetics, there's calf leather straps in an array of iconic Gucci colourways, whilst those looking for a band more typical of a sports watch can reach for the metal link bracelet complete with 'GG' monogram etching. We consider matching your watch to your belt an unbreakable style rule, and now there’s a strap to match each of them.
With a casing that perfectly balances classic and vintage aesthetics, alongside a retro-futuristic dial and a large selection of strap options, the Grip has all the hallmarks of a watch that goes with everything. What to wear yours with? Why not tap into that seventies trend with these four counterculture looks from the masters themselves. It's all Gucci:
SIDEWALK SURFER
Pair this washed-out neon retro graphic tee with shorts and white PE socks to channel that West Coast skater vibe. Pre-distressed sneakers with just the right amount of scuff marks will have everyone believing you’ve actually been shredding bowls too. Oh, and don't forget Gucci's accessory of the season - the kneepad - for a totally authentic (and not posery at all) rad look. Being this stylish is dangerous, safety first!
SMART CASUAL
Gucci makes the nerds of the seventies look better than the fuccbois of today. The formula for their retro geek chic lies in mixing multiple trends like sleeveless knitwear, with pleated plaid trousers and platforms, topped with babushka-style silk scarves worn as neckerchiefs. Finish the look with oversized eyewear. This is not the time for small sunglasses.
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
It's murder on the dance floor when Gucci is around. Their seventies inspired tailoring takes the classic zoot suit silhouette and elevates it with shimmering metallic fabric, whilst this extra fat clip-on tie is the perfect homage to the era of wide lapels, bright colours and pointy collars. Top yours off with a statement felt hat that’s straight out of Alessandro Michele’s personal style book.
SEVENTIES SPORTS
Whilst sportswear is synonymous with the eighties, the seventies saw athletic wear hit the mainstream with luxury cotton blends that preceded the synthetic nylons that came later. Gucci nails that seventies sportswear vibe perfectly with a velour tracksuit that's more Hugh Hefner in the Playboy mansion than Jane Fonda in leg warmers, or Skepta at fashion week. Complete the look with a sporty headband and monogrammed slides for the ultimate leisure suit.