See All the Phantasmagoric Accessories and Details at Gucci’s Spring show
To Die For – Hollywood Forever Cemetery Inspires Gucci’s Spring show
Gucci’s spring 2017 collection titled “Magical Lanterns” was a phantasmagoria of fantasy motifs, Asian animal Gods, and Hollywood references. The venue was awash in pink with a plush runway of woven Gucci stripes, and was reminiscent of a ‘70s nightclub. Walls were covered in mirrored squares and a thick white mist engulfed the room. In typical Gucci exuberance, Michele showed off his maximalist collection of a fairy-tale dream sequence featuring 20th century pop culture references including an bespeckled homage to legend rocker Elton John. “He’s like a firework,” Michele enthused. “He’s the God of music, pop but also very sophisticated.” Michele took a dualistic approach to Hollywood, referencing both the screen idols of Hollywood when stars were considered screen Goddesses while also addressing a darker motif with the “Hollywood Forever Cemetery” appearing on several pieces throughout the collection. The show featured 75 looks, all intricately designed to pay homage to various eras. Michele gained inspiration from the 80s, and these references can be seen in the sequin pineapple epaulets, along with spiked acid-washed denim and red leather throughout the collection.
The sportswear was more decorative than high performance, with a pale satin baseball suit embellished with beaded red poppies. Sequin embroidered Chinese dragons, snakes and tigers added extra sparkle to highlight pieces of the collection including tailored blazers, chiffon dresses and graphic tees. Signature red and navy Gucci stripes were seen in an oversized button blazer and tweed tank with matching trousers. Standout accessories included over-the-top, fanciful hats decorated with bright oversized bows and opulent florals. The footwear was no less captivating, featuring glittering sequin embellished booties and flatforms decorated with snake motifs. Michele also found inspiration in the ‘70s with oversized glitter-framed shades, gold disco ruffled trousers and deep scoop neck vests. The Hollywood influence was embodied in stylized gowns and dresses brimming with embellishment and fanciful detailing. Michele’s collections have a way of making maximalism seem appealing and often have a trickle down effect influencing much more than just streetwear. Michele described it as “Beautiful and pop, but also very sophisticated in a way… it’s an eclectic conversation between different inspirations, that at the end becomes a language. My idea of fashion was always that it isn’t just one story.”
