In a stunning return to its Florentine roots, Gucci’s Cruise 2026 show masterfully celebrated the brand’s hallmark Italian opulence, intricate craftsmanship, and rich heritage, reminding the fashion world why it remains an icon of luxury and innovation. Set against the historic backdrop of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and Gucci itself, the collection offered a lavish homage to decades of evolving style, from Tom Ford’s boldness to Alessandro Michele’s eclectic vision. This moment of reflection and renewal comes at a pivotal time for the house, as it stands on the brink of transformation with the recent departure of creative director Sabato De Sarno and the anticipated arrival of Demna, whose acclaimed work at Balenciaga promises to usher in an exciting new chapter. As the brand honors its past, it also looks ahead with renewed confidence, embracing both tradition and modernity in a seamless fusion of glamour and innovation.
A homecoming to Florence: The heart of Gucci’s identity
Last night, Gucci staged its Cruise 2026 show in Florence — the city where it all began in 1921. The setting was no accident: Palazzo Settimanni, home to Gucci’s vast archives, was a physical reminder of the brand’s layered history, housing treasures from the eras of Tom Ford, Frida Giannini, Alessandro Michele, and most recently Sabato De Sarno. This archive, rich with ornate details and a spectrum of Gucci’s evolving aesthetics, showcased how the house has balanced continuity with innovation, maintaining its signature blend of Italian excess and glamorous sophistication.
Florence’s Latin name, Florentia, meaning “blossoming,” felt especially fitting. The Renaissance birthplace of art and culture mirrored the collection’s themes of growth and transformation. Gucci, too, finds itself at a crossroads. While De Sarno’s recent revisiting of the house codes remains fresh in memory, the announcement of Demna as his successor has stirred anticipation of a bold new chapter. Known for his radical influence at Balenciaga, Demna’s arrival promises a future that could redefine Gucci’s legacy.
Craftsmanship meets modernity: Highlights from the cruise collection
Accompanied by the evocative sounds of Ennio Morricone, the collection was a masterclass in Gucci’s famed Italian flair. The pieces were imbued with contrasts that felt both nostalgic and forward-thinking. Plush faux-fur coats in sable and stracciatella hues evoked the cozy elegance of a stylish Italian grandmother’s wardrobe, while glimmering GG monogram leggings added a youthful, playful twist. Brocade jackets with fur collars and pencil skirts, topped with aviator sunglasses, channeled the powerful silhouettes of the 1980s — a nod to Gucci’s knack for melding eras.
The collection also featured delicately layered lace over minimalist shift dresses, injecting texture without losing simplicity. Silk blouses with pussy-bow closures were given a contemporary edge with dramatically curved shoulders, a subtle hint of Demna’s upcoming influence. Evening Wear dazzled with ornately beaded silk gowns in classic ivory and jet black, perfectly marrying opulence with wearability.
Bags that tell a story: Homage to Florence and versatile design
The accessories carried just as much meaning as the garments. Gucci introduced modular bags that echoed classic styles but offered modern adaptability. Many featured adjustable or removable straps, allowing wearers to customize their look and comfort. Among them, the Giglio bag stood out—a tribute to Florence itself. Named after the Italian word for lily, the giglio emblem has symbolized the city since medieval times, making the bag a deeply resonant piece in the collection.
A celebration of legacy and future promise
As the show reached its climax, models flooded the historic Piazza Santo Spirito, mingling with spectators ranging from curious locals to devoted teenage fans. The design team took the stage alongside François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, and deputy CEO Francesca Bellettini, receiving applause that honored both their craftsmanship and the house’s enduring influence.
This Cruise 2026 presentation reaffirmed Gucci’s unique ability to embrace contradictions—the old and the new, restraint and extravagance, history and reinvention. By mining its remarkable 46,000-piece archive and honoring its rich past, Gucci reminded the world that its true strength lies in its layered identity, poised on the edge of exciting transformation.
