In my opinion, the Gucci label has gone downhill since Frida Giannini took over the design helm from Tom Ford. This Gucci Fall 2009 collection appears to be aimed at young women in their early twenties - the clubbing youth. Thigh high boots, glitter tights, or for evening, tiny, drapey iridescent-crystal mesh dresses. Gucci used to reflect sophistication and class, but now it seems the focus has shifted to sexy and street chic. While I have nothing against this collection, I couldn't wear any of it.

From Time Magazine - "Frida Giannini's multifold genius at Gucci comes from her gut--she knows the brand so well that channeling its vibe has become an instinctive, natural reaction. This season, she offered up hit after hit that's guaranteed to please the slew of Gucci-ites who clamor for the brand's latest release. "It was an exotic tour in Acapulco, the Americas, Miami," Giannini explained after the show. "It was interesting to bring back the idea of the tailoring from menswear and mix it with a shorter, softer silhouette. The common idea of the entire collection is the prints and the color, which are so strong. It is all in the same attitude." There were Hawaiian-print capris, modernized with a graphic palm and bird-of-paradise motif, alongside safari gear. All was heavily accented with gold hardware and bright bags, of course. Accessory editors giddily sketched the royal blue leather backpack and bondage platforms (is three ankle straps enough?). A parade of floor-length chiffon gowns in lavender, cerulean and various prints ended the show, as Rihanna looked on in apparent ecstasy. Giannini is a designer, sure, but she's also a saleswoman--in the most lucrative way possible. And this season, Gucci's fans will reap the rewards."