The role of the muse in art, design and literature is as fascinating as that of the craftsperson, if not more so. Historically, muses were almost-mystical figures who emboldened the creative’s practice and inspired greatness. The modern muse’s relationship with the maker is sometimes deliberate (a contractual acknowledgement of chemistry) and at other times serendipitous.
The latter dynamic played a pivotal role in the 1970s when the former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis became an unwitting muse for the house of Gucci. The perennial fashion It-girl’s affinity for a slouchy leather tote, originally introduced by Gucci as the G1244 in 1961 and used on occasion by Kennedy Onassis to hide her face from the lenses of the New York paparazzi, garnered so much attention that it earned the nickname “The Jackie” internally (it was officially christened in 2020). The crescent-shaped hobo, initially made in canvas and brown leather, was a welcome departure from the structured bags of the time, and featured Gucci’s signature cylindrical piston closure, alongside an adjustable shoulder strap and trapezoidal base. Enduring through the tenures of Tom Ford and Frida Giannini, the iconic bag saw a renaissance in 2020 under creative director Alessandro Michele. The new Jackie came in “mini”, “small” and “medium” and fresh colourways, appealing to contemporary sensibilities.
This year, creative director Sabato De Sarno introduces the latest chapter: Jackie Notte. Sleek and exuding sensuality, the aptly named Notte serves as the ultimate evening companion, embodying the sartorial confidence of its eponymous muse in a new silhouette, along with subtle details like an innovative snap hook and monogram chain strap.
