In a dazzling display at Milan Fashion Week, Gucci presented its spring/summer 2025 collection, aptly named "Casual grandeur." The showcase, held on September 20, 2024, marked a significant milestone for creative director Sabato De Sarno, who celebrated his first anniversary at the helm of the iconic Italian fashion house.
The collection drew inspiration from the enchanting hues of summer sunsets, with a color palette ranging from warm oranges and reds to cool greys and greens. This theme resonated throughout the show, as models traversed a vibrant red catwalk under lighting that transitioned from stark white to warmer tones, mirroring the sun's descent into the sea.
De Sarno's vision for Gucci blended contemporary luxury with subtle nods to 1960s fashion, a period that saw the introduction of the brand's iconic double-G logo. The collection featured a diverse array of garments, including tailored jackets, floor-length trousers, and an assortment of dresses adorned with golden buckles.
Accessories played a crucial role in completing the looks, with large summer hats, an array of handbags, and footwear ranging from loafers to platform shoes with transparent heels. These elements paid homage to Gucci's rich heritage, which began in 1921 as a leather goods company founded by Guccio Gucci in Florence.
The show attracted notable attendees, including Oscar-winning actress Jessica Chastain and Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner, highlighting the brand's enduring appeal across various spheres of influence. This star-studded audience is a testament to Gucci's longstanding relationship with celebrities, having dressed numerous icons and been featured in countless films and TV shows over the years.
"It's the moment we find ourselves. This collection is a tribute to those moments, and an invitation to stop, seek your own moment."
De Sarno's approach to reinvigorating the Gucci brand is evident in his sleek, pared-back creations, which stand in contrast to the eclectic, gender-neutral styles of his predecessor, Alessandro Michele. This shift in aesthetic aligns with Gucci's history of adaptation and innovation, reminiscent of Tom Ford's revitalization of the brand from 1994 to 2004.
The showcase comes at a crucial time for Gucci's parent company, Kering. Despite reporting a larger-than-expected drop in second-quarter sales in July 2024, the luxury group continues to rely heavily on Gucci, which accounts for half of its sales. This financial context underscores the importance of De Sarno's vision in maintaining Gucci's position as a leader in the luxury fashion market.
As Gucci continues to evolve, it remains committed to its heritage while embracing modern values. The brand's decision to go fur-free in 2017 and its implementation of sustainability initiatives through the "Gucci Equilibrium" program demonstrate its adaptability to changing consumer preferences and global concerns.
The "Casual grandeur" collection not only showcases Gucci's latest fashion offerings but also serves as a reflection of the brand's journey from a small leather goods shop in Florence to a global luxury powerhouse. With each carefully crafted piece, De Sarno invites fashion enthusiasts to pause and appreciate the beauty of the moment, much like the awe-inspiring spectacle of a summer sunset.