I have an addiction. It isn't drugs or gambling: I get to keep what I use after I use it. But inches from the runway, waiting for the smooth mannequin boys with surgically removed hips and buttocks swaying like sunglassed Gumbys with the newest designs from creative director Frida Giannini, I know the promise is useless. She is very concerned, because she knows what can happen. And let's not forget the gifts waiting in each hotel room: chocolates stamped with the iconic interlocking GG insignia, a crocodile credit card holder, a crocodile wallet, and a tie.īefore I left, I promised my wife I would be restrained. Then, on the final day, Gucci Casellina, where I am shown trade secrets that will get me lowered permanently into the Arno if ever revealed. The Gucci Museo for a private tour of the retailer's legacy and then dinner. A fitting the next day for a made-to-measure suit and shoes and shirt at the Gucci store. A sumptuous dinner with an unrestricted view of the Duomo, which shimmered with golden light in the shadows of the chilly night. A guests-only presentation at the Gucci showroom with champagne, way too much champagne. The fashion show with the presentation of the men's 2013-14 autumn/winter collection. Gucci employees everywhere, like secret agents without the whole talking-wrist ritual. Bissinger with better pronunciation and far more enthusiasm than my friends. Private pickup to the Park Hyatt Milan, where the concierge has been clearly prepped before our arrival, calling me Mr. Business class on Alitalia Flight 605 from JFK to Malpensa on January 12. I am here as a private client of Gucci, one of five pampered and feted on an all-expenses-paid four-day trip to Milan and Florence.

But I am not here because of my particular journalistic qualifications.

Hg buzz bissinger