Gucci Gyeongbokgung Palace: AA regalregal returnreturn toto Korean rootsroots

Gucci Gyeongbokgung Palace—let’s start there. To showcase the house’s latest Cruise line, Sabato De Sarno presented a spectacular collection paying homage to the beginning of the luxury brand. Gucci opened its first store in Seoul in 1998, where it returned to unveil its latest men’s and womenswear. The 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace is a stunning building and the perfect complement to the line.

They couldn’t situate a runway at a more admirable venue. A palace of all places. An honourable building overseeing the night, a night for beauty and elegance. Sprinkled with lights, it was as if the night sky had scattered the stars across the venue, illuminating the scene. A classy yet adorable touch enhanced the models’ stage presence and added class to the garments. 

The Gucci Collection

Designed by an in-house team, Cruise is a Korean streetwear-inspired line that factors elements of sport with utmost class. This development is an artistic and classical take on the practicality of sportswear. This Oriental exploration is an example of a modern refinery with a slight grunge aesthetic. I adore the combination and cannot fault Gucci’s eye for such distinguished fashion.

Including neoprene material is a subtle nod to wet-suit clothing and is further emphasised with the variety of Gucci surfboards. This is a clever and attractive contribution that encapsulates a unique aspect. Surfboards are a bold accessory. Gucci-branded skateboards were also a popular asset for many models, reinforcing the sport and grunge-like aesthetic while sticking to their luxury roots. A creative blend that we can all appreciate.

Accessories

Bulky and bougie chains are another feature that elevated the garments. I think accessories make or break the outfit, and the in-house stylists know what they’re doing. The chains relate to the punk feel, which places more emphasis on streetwear inspiration. It is a linked set of garments and a thorough look into Korean streetwear.

Gucci’s Signature red stripe is an attribution to the line that nods towards their classic design, including a vibrant splash of colour that dictates style and class. Who doesn’t love a slice of red? This, alongside the trademark logo designs, is a standardised practice for the Gucci house, establishing its mark and ensuring brand recognition. Not like they need it. But it’s a solidifying feature.

Dazzling, Sparkling and bringing attention to light, garments were stoned and jewelled to bring the catwalk aglow. In such areas, it is easy for stones to appear tacky and overused. However, incorporating glitter and jewels adds an opulent touch that shines across the palace walls.

In many recent collections from any house, everyone likes to include elongated structural forms, whether tight or baggy; I love a lengthy garment. This, alongside a few mentions of inflated sleeves and boxy shoulders, allows for a versatile line.

Gucci Gyeongbokgung Palace

We can all agree that we demand diversity in all forms of modern-day media representation. Despite seeing a vast selection of races within this Gucci collection, we need help with sizing. Every model represented is the smallest size money can buy. They are collectively bold and beautiful. However, where are the bountiful curves and luscious big bodies?

Something is missing here, for sure. The line could’ve won brownie points for being more inclusive. Though, as an overall presentation, it is a magnificent showcase on Gucci’s behalf. I cannot fault the artistry evaluated and the reference exploration. Gyeongbokgung Palace was an astounding venue with a collection to follow. 2024 has much in store for the fashion world.

Feature image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight.