Alessandro Michele is a change maker. Yesterday the creative director of Gucci announced the unthinkable to fashion world – as of next year, the house will only undertake two shows as opposed to their usual five.
Speaking from his studio in Rome, Michele announced: “We need new oxygen to allow this complex system to be reborn.” He also intends to remove the distinction between men’s and women’s wear and the traditional fall/winter and spring/summer distinctions.
Michele is not alone in his quest to change fashion. Saint Laurent and Armani have done the same, however, Gucci is the first to publicly commit to a “permanent rethink”. It is possible that this is indicative of a sea change across the fashion world.
Yesterday, in a statement published on Gucci’s Instagram, Michele wrote: “I will abandon the worn-out ritual of seasonalities and shows to regain a new cadence, closer to my expressive call.”
Michele attributed Covid-19, in part, to allowing him time to reconsider the profile of the fashion house. He wrote that fort he first time he had “time — time I have never had before to think about my work, my creativity, our future, the future of the company.” Under the previous system he felt that his “creativity was being jeopardized.”
While it is clear that Milan’s fashion week will no longer be able to take place as planned, Gucci are participating in a virtual incarnation of the season, showcasing their latest collection on July 17. Entitled “Epilogue”, it is believed to be the last of its kind.
Michele concluded his interview, stating “I’m no anarchist”. In light of recent events, others from the fashion world may disagree
