Retailing: Gucci on the Go

Who would pay $1,480 for a crocodile handbag? Or $1,150 for a solid gold-mesh belt? Or $500 for a three-piece set of calf luggage? Those who would—and do—constitute the glittering clientele of Gucci, the Florentine leather company that offers fancy quality at fancy prices. Before flying off to wed Aristotle Onassis, Jacqueline Kennedy stopped at Gucci's Manhattan shop to select a brown crocodile handbag. Darryl Zanuck had Gucci copy his favorite 30-year-old valise, and Capucine bought a leather dog carrier. Frank Sinatra recently sent his secretary to pick up a pair of moccasins. Other regular patrons include Rothschilds and...