The Fiat 500 gets a Gucci makeover for Fashion Week

The new Fiat 500 by Gucci limited-edition models will make their debut on Fashion’s Night Out (Sept. 8) during New York’s Fashion Week, Sept. 8-15, combining the best of Italian style and craftsmanship.

In a year that combines not only the 150th anniversary of the unification of Italy but also Gucci’s 90th anniversary, the special editions of the Fiat 500 and 500 Cabrio have been customized by Gucci’s creative director Frida Giannini, in partnership with Fiat's Centro Stile.

“In the 50s the Fiat 500 created a style revolution when it first hit the road. It quickly became the must-have car of its time,” said Frida Giannini. “Travelling in style has also been at the heart of Gucci ever since Guccio Gucci founded his company as a producer of leather trunks, suitcases and handbags in 1921. So, when Lapo Elkann suggested the idea of this collaboration it struck me as a perfect opportunity to create a new modern travel statement in Gucci's 90th anniversary year,”

The models are a classic study in black and white, finished in eye-catching glossy pearl-glass paint. The black model’s exterior is detailed in shiny chrome paired with interiors that contrast sharp black and white, for a contemporary attitude that’s just a little flippant. The white version comes with satin chrome details plus an ivory and black interior for a softer, sophisticated and more feminine look.

“With Gucci as our design partner, we’ve amplified the Italian style of our Fiat 500 with unique exterior and interior looks that will make the car truly unique on the road,” said Laura Soave, Head of FIAT Brand North America. “This special edition adds dimension to the Fiat 500 portfolio and will appeal to North American customers who appreciate Italian style just as much as modern technology, value and fuel efficiency.”

The worldwide launch of the Fiat 500 by Gucci has been developed with the support of Lapo Elkann and his agency, Independent Ideas, and includes a fully integrated above and below-the-line campaign.

"I am honored that I was able to connect Fiat and Gucci, especially in such an important anniversary year for Italy,” Elkann said. “Being Italian, it makes me proud to have contributed to this Fiat 500 by Gucci, which brings together the spirit of two brands that so perfectly symbolize our country's savoir faire in the world. It has indeed been very gratifying to work again on the car I love most with Fiat's Centro Stile and with Frida Giannini.”

The exclusive design elements of the Fiat 500 by Gucci models include several which highlight the Fiat 500’s iconic silhouette. A signature Gucci green/red/green web stripe runs along the entire body side perimeter on the Fiat 500 by Gucci, or across the length of the power-retractable cloth top on the Fiat 500c by Gucci model.

Chromed “Gucci” signatures in cursive script grace the door frames and hatchback, complementing exterior accents, such as mirrors, door handles and the hood spear, highlighted in signature diamond black or diamond white glossy pearl-glass paint. Adding to the vehicle’s sculpted fenders are uniquely designed, retro15-inch aluminum wheels with interlocking “GG’ hubcaps and brake pads lacquered in Gucci green.

The interior of the Fiat 500 by Gucci features fashionable embroidery, swank materials, glossy and satin chromes plus a velvety varnish on the “radioboard.” The two-toned seats are coverd in Frau leather with the Guccissima print. Premium leather accents adorn the interior door panels and the steering wheel, finished in a two-tone ivory and white combination.

Additionally, the Fiat 500 by Gucci features the all-new six-speed automatic transmission with driver-selectable gear changes, handsfree communication USB port, eco:Drive app and iPod control capability, SIRIUS Radio, Bose energy efficient audio with six speakers and subwoofer, power sunroof, automatic climate control, seven standard air bags, security alarm, power heated mirrors, cruise control, fog lamps and a customizable vehicle information center.

The 2012 Fiat 500 by Gucci models will be available exclusively at FIAT Studios nationwide during December this year. For more information, visit fiatusa.com/gucci.

Naturally, if you buy the special edition Fiat 500 by Gucci, the collateral travel accessories are a must and include small leather goods, drivers, tracksuits, bombers, driver gloves, sunglasses and a watch, which are available in select Gucci stores and online at gucci.com.

Ciao, baby!