Gucci is definitely my designer store of choice in Brisbane.  The boutique not only has a vast array of handbags and wallets as you would expect, but it gets my tick for stocking a selection of clothing and shoes from Gucci’s current collections.

I buy from designers on occasion (Chanel, Balenciaga, YSL, Dior) and I always like to browse in their boutiques so I can see their new collections and touch the fabrics.  A recent Gucci purchase ticked all my boxes, for quality as expected and in this case versatility too, but it ticked an added box for the fun I had in making the purchase.

That was because I discovered a little gem at Gucci – the rack in the back! A rack which sported substantial savings.  While I was admiring the latest collection I was asked by the sales attendant in a professional yet almost conspiratorial manner if I’d like to see what was on this covert rack.  He wasn’t the least bit condescending and even though I knew I would not be offered new season’s designs I still felt as though I was being treated to a special viewing.

Photo courtesy: style.com

And naturally I found a few pieces of interest on this special rack, including a stylish cocktail dress in russet silk from Gucci’s Fall 2013 Ready-to-Wear collection.

The rack savings were so generous that I must have spent a good 40 minutes trying on various items and the salesman, always courteous, was also listening to me, as to what I like to wear and how I like to look.

My final choice was between a black cocktail dress and a stunning silk-wool blend pencil skirt with inverted pleat, complete with sexy slit at the back and large bow detail at the waist.

Image courtesy: farfetch.com

I eventually chose the pencil skirt but not before I teamed it with a matching sleeveless, high-necked blouse.  This is where the versatility came in.  I bought two new pieces but achieved multiple outfits – I can wear them as separates for different looks or together, giving me the same seamless silhouette as a dress.