This past weekend, Gucci opened the doors to its new pop-up in Chicago for the brand’s new GG Psychedelic collection. The disco-themed temporary storefront is the third iteration in Gucci’s “Pin” pop-up series, which was inspired by the pins seen on interactive digital maps (each location will have a custom Gucci pin that’ll appear on Google Maps). Pieces from the new GG Psychedelic line, including accessories, luggage and handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear—all of which feature the new Gucci monogram remixed by creative director Alessandro Michele—will be available at the space.
To celebrate, Gucci hosted an event, with tons of celebrities stopping by—Spike Lee, Derrick Rose, Nick Young, Fat Joe, and more. But the party wasn’t just for the new collection or pop-up. Gucci also honored the Chicago-based recipients of its new Changemakers Impact Fund: After School Matters and Braven.
The Changemakers Impact Fund, under the leadership of Global Head of Diversity, Inclusion and Equality Renée Tirado, was first announced last month. Through this initiative, Gucci will provide $1 million in annual grants to various nonprofits in North America, with the goal to support organizations dedicated to creating social impact across diverse communities in 12 cities. Braven and After School Matters received grants of up to $50,000 each for a one-year funding cycle.
“I’m actually a resident of Illinois. I grew up here, so for me it’s always like coming home when I go to Chicago,” Gucci America CEO Susan Chokachi said. “To see two organizations that are giving so much of their time, energy, dedication to bringing out the greatest potential in the youth here in Chicago really gives me so much pride and a great sense of joy to be a part of the work that they’re doing.”
Gucci has selected 14 other recipients in its first round of grantees of the Changemakers Impact Fund, which you can find here.
The Gucci Psychedelic Pin pop-up is located at 160 N. Morgan St. in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, and it’ll be open until March 2, 2020.
