FASHION has long been used as a communicator of hidden messages. Just as body language conveys feelings and a sense of an individual, so too do the clothes we wear. The Gucci Cruise Collection 2020 show, in Rome, was attended by celebrities Saoirse Ronan, Naomi Campbell, Zumi Rosow, A$AP Rocky and Elton John, who know well the importance of a good outfit. Alessandro Michele’s collection conveyed a subliminal message of freedom, something he believes his birthplace, Rome, has long stood as a symbol for.
Taking place among the shadows cast by the statues of antiquity, the Gucci 2020 Cruise Collection came to the Capitoline Musuems in Rome on the 28th May 2019, with Alessandro Michele’s pieces casting a re-imagined vision of the past. In a visual ode to his beloved city, the collection captures Rome’s history and its relationship with freedom. Forget gladiator sandals – Alessandro Michele makes the case for gladiatorial tunics. Not for you? How about a Vatican-inspired priest’s outfit? This appreciation of Rome’s past is accompanied by a reminder of Gucci’s history – their classic motif features heavily in the accessories worn by the models. Looking to the present, Mickey Mouse motifs make an appearance.
In what was perhaps a considered protestation of the recent decision to ban abortion in Alabama, the date of the legalisation of abortion in Italy May 22, 1978 was a key part of one piece and women’s reproductive rights were alluded to by the delicate embroidery of a women’s womb on another. A blue jacket with ‘My Body My Choice’ emblazoned on the back was also showcased.
Model wears piece displaying the date of
the legalisation of abortion in Italy
Dress embroidered with uterus
With this collection Alessandro Michele has truly probed the present by exploring the past.
by Alicia Pountney