Gucci Transforms Tate Modern into Italian Oasis for Majestic Cruise Collection Showcase

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Under the canvas of a star-dusted night, London became a little more enamored with Italy. The Tate Modern, a stoic sentinel of creativity on the banks of the River Thames, had its underbelly transformed into a verdant oasis. Its typically Spartan concrete dungeon surrendered its muted gray tones to become a lush, green runway for the Italian fashion house, Gucci. Imagination and innovation were on full display as the world of high fashion descended on the British capital in extravagant style.

The soiree was a majestic display of Gucci’s exclusive cruise collection. For one night only, the museum’s unassuming basement came alive with the rustle of sheer outfits, relaxed denim, and daywear. These elegantly appointed pieces were elevated further by the adornments of the brand’s much-lauded leather accessories, each one emblazoned with the unmistakable double-G logo.


The front row was a who’s who of star power. This rare spectacle of fashion was viewed by such luminaries as actors Paul Mescal and Andrew Scott, global pop singers Dua Lipa and Solange Knowles. Adding more glitz and glamour to the esteemed assembly were Salma Hayek and her husband, François-Henri Pinault. As the CEO and chair of Kering, the parent company of Gucci, Pinault was on hand to enjoy the display.

The showcase was the first cruise collection by Gucci’s recently minted creative director, Sabato De Sarno. His innovative influence has taken the brand to new heights since his debut womenswear designs last September.

Typically, sway and swagger of Gucci would only grace Milan, but the brand has developed a penchant for showcasing its cruise collections across the globe. London was the latest choice, its vibrant cultural fabric serving as a backdrop to the distinctive allure between spring and autumn displays.

As the models sauntered down the forest-lined makeshift runway, the onlookers were treated to the sight of luxurious evening wear cinched perfectly with slouchy denim, and casual jackets finely trimmed with delicate floral embroidery. This grandiosity was pared down by the comforting array of Mary Jane shoes, ballet flats, and platform loafers, all coupled with quaint white socks.

“Rigor and extravagance, strength in delicacy, Englishness with an Italian accent,” was how Gucci described the spectacle. De Sarno offered a sartorial ode to British style by integrating checked jackets and referencing Scottish plaids through shimmering bead-fringed dresses and coats.

Indeed, Gucci has been intertwined with Britain in a unique historical exchange. Over a century ago, the founder of Gucci, Guccio Gucci, worked at the Savoy, London’s luxury hotel. This experience mingled with his passion and resulted in the birth of an illustrious store in Florence in 1921. This fine fusion of cultures is what fueled the evolution of Gucci, and as the saying goes, the rest is history.