The eminent fashion house unveiled opulent new era designs during Milan Fashion Week, marking a shift away from the iconic Gucci red to a captivating dark Gucci green. The runway was transformed with a plush green carpet and pleated drapery, symbolizing a creative transition from the era of Sabato De Sarno. Red, the signature color associated with De Sarno’s tenure, was decisively replaced by the enchanting green hue, drawing a clear line under the past.
The design team faced a tight deadline of just 2 1/2 weeks to curate a fresh collection following De Sarno’s abrupt departure after a brief two-year stint. This swift turnaround is reminiscent of the Alessandro Michele era’s inception in 2015, which saw a new collection presented within a mere five days. Michele’s artistic direction has always featured elements like pussy bows and eclectic aesthetics reminiscent of vintage treasures found in flea markets. The clues from the runway suggest an intriguing shift in the brand’s trajectory.
Drawing inspiration from Gucci’s rich heritage, the collection paid homage to various iconic eras. Box-cut suit jackets with a retro 1960s vibe were paired with mini skirts for women and slim trousers for men. Silky dresses adorned with lace trim evoked the glamorous essence of the 1990s, while deconstructed pussy-bow blouses harked back to the romantic motifs of the Michele era. Classic pencil skirts with slits and tailored cigarette pants added a contemporary touch to the nostalgic ensembles.
The overall ambiance exuded luxury, featuring sumptuous faux fur, lustrous satins, and exquisitely crafted mother of pearl leather, setting a decadent tone for the collection. Among the esteemed front row guests at the Gucci interim show were Daisy Edgar Jones, Jessica Chastain, Parker Posey, and Dev Patel, showcasing the brand’s enduring allure and star-studded appeal.
Key trends spotted on the runway included boxy suit jackets with flat pockets reminiscent of the 1960s, lavish faux fur coats, and long, flowing satiny scarves, hinting at a sophisticated and glamorous aesthetic for the upcoming season.