MILAN (AP) — The iconic luxury fashion brand, Gucci, is making waves with its latest creative transition, shying away from the deep reds of the past and embracing a new era characterized by a dark green aesthetic. On the opening day of Milan Fashion Week, the brand made a bold statement by draping the runway in an opulent green carpet and pleated drapery, symbolizing the end of the Sabato De Sarno era.
The design team faced a tight deadline of just 2 1/2 weeks to craft a fresh collection following the abrupt departure of De Sarno after a brief two-year tenure. However, they surpassed expectations, reminiscent of the swift turnaround seen during the inception of the Alessandro Michele era back in 2015, when a groundbreaking five-day runway launch set the tone for a new chapter in Gucci’s history.
Under Michele’s visionary leadership, subtle hints of the brand’s future direction began to emerge, with signature elements like pussy bows and eclectic ensembles evoking a sense of nostalgia akin to treasures found in a vintage market. The latest runway display offered a tantalizing glimpse into the brand’s evolving aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Gucci’s rich heritage while infusing a modern twist.
The collection paid homage to Gucci’s iconic styles from different eras, featuring cropped boxy suit jackets reminiscent of the swinging 1960s, paired with mini skirts for women and slim trousers for men. Delicate silk dresses adorned with lace trim harked back to the glamorous 1990s, while deconstructed pussy-bow blouses added a romantic touch, a nod to the Michele era. Classic pencil skirts with slits and tailored cigarette pants rounded out the assortment, showcasing a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary flair.
A luxurious ambiance permeated the show, with opulent fabrics such as faux fur, satin, and mother of pearl leather setting the stage for a decadent sartorial experience. Notable front row attendees at the Gucci interim presentation included Daisy Edgar Jones, Jessica Chastain, Parker Posey, and Dev Patel, adding star power to the already captivating showcase.
Trend-watchers took note of the revival of boxy suit jackets with flat pockets reminiscent of the 1960s, as well as the prevalence of faux fur coats and long flowing satin scarves, signaling a potential shift in fashion preferences for the upcoming season. Gucci’s silent style revolution is in full swing, promising a bold and innovative future for the esteemed fashion house.
