The Swiss star led after the first run in the Austrian resort before ruthlessly pressing home her advantage.

She clocked a superb 1min 10.11sec first time down to lead by over a second from United States' Mikaela Shiffrin.

Conditions were slightly tougher second time around but Gut managed a solid 1:12.91 to finish on 2:23.02, 1.44 seconds clear.

"It’s always special in Soelden, and you know it’s my first time coming as an [overall] winner," she said.

"I had a tough time this morning, I was just thinking all the time today - like Marcel [Hirscher] told me yesterday just to ski. 

"My team exactly told me the same, so I tried just not to think and ski."

Shiffrin held on for second place and Italy's Marta Bassino managed 2:24.95 for the bronze medal and a first World Cup podium finish.

Stephanie Brunner led the home charge in fourth position.

"I definitely like second," Shiffrin joked. 

"I like first better, but it is nice to start off on this foot and it was really a tough day for a lot of girls, I think.

"Lara was the only one who really skied as hard as she could and I’m happy with where I’m at. 

"I took more risks than I ever have in a GS, but I can do better - I can do more and better."

Men's giant slalom action is scheduled for the Austrian resort tomorrow.