In homage to London's unique contrasts, Gucci's Cruise 2025 collection, unveiled at the iconic Tate Modern Museum, celebrates the city's essence through the visionary lens of creative director Sabato De Sarno. Drawing inspiration from the house heritage and his own personal experiences, De Sarno presents a collection that blends opposites: strength and softness, old styles and new ideas.
The enduring connection between Gucci and London traces its origins to the establishment of the House by Guccio Gucci. His pivotal stay in London in 1897 proved transformative, profoundly shaping his perception of luxury and craftsmanship. Serving as a bellboy at the Savoy Hotel, Guccio immersed himself in the city's rich culture, a formative experience that would significantly impact the brand's ethos and identity. To this day, that bond has become stronger.
From the grandeur of the Tate Modern's Turbine Hall to the intimacy of its Tanks, the venue is a metaphor for the collection itself—a seamless blend of disparate elements. De Sarno's designs deftly navigate the tension between precision and opulence, effortlessly fusing the traditional English character with an unmistakable Italian flair. Technical gabardine coats, embellished with delicate floral motifs, offer a juxtaposition of softness against structured elegance. Gucci's Cruise 2025 collection was all about the fusion of tomboy chic and feminine charm, interweaving masculine and feminine aesthetics into the statement codes of the house.
Drawing inspiration from British military uniforms and Italian refinement, the collection showcases oversized button-downs and patchwork denim, revealing intricate lace accents. Throughout, delicate fabrics take centre stage, while organza steals the spotlight with its dramatic forms, ranging from soft pastels to bold greens and blues. Iconic Gucci symbols, like the horsebit detail, are reimagined in suede, paying homage to the brand's equestrian roots while embracing contemporary trends. Meanwhile, the statement bags had to be on the runway, like the Gucci Blondie bag, which was nothing but luxury and functional, embodying the spirit of the modern woman.
At the heart of the collection lies a celebration of craftsmanship, where embroidery, tailoring, and handiwork converge to create pieces that transcend cultural barriers. From delicate beaded fringe embroidery to hand-moulded sequins, each garment tells a story of meticulous artistry and timeless elegance. Gucci is dedicated to supporting culturally significant spaces and the communities they serve. In line with this commitment, Gucci has announced its sponsorship of the Electric Dreams exhibition, set to debut at the Tate Modern in autumn 2024. Additionally, Gucci will engage in a triennial partnership focused on nurturing young creatives and fostering Tate's support for emerging talent.
