Gucci’s designers swiftly incorporated Seoul’s street style elements into the collection.
Taking place within the ceremonial courtyard of the 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace, located in the heart of Seoul, The Gucci Resort 2024 Collection explores this exchange in a dialogue between the House’s own heritage and the electrifying South Korean impact that influences it today. The entire showcase highlighted the major influence the country now has on the rest of the world, and that was only further exemplified by the star-studded selection of guests that filled the front row — namely some of the biggest names in the South Korean entertainment industry and, of course, K-pop.
“The journey started in Korea 25 years ago with the opening of our first boutique in Seoul and grew throughout time,” said Gucci CEO Marco Bizzarri in a press statement. “Gyeongbokgung Palace is one of those wonders of the world that made us feel an instant connection with Korean culture and the people who created it.”
Gucci’s exploration of Seoul’s fashion landscape began with model Sora Choi opening the show in a striking black padded coat paired with jeans, complemented by a baguette-shaped bag adorned with crystals. The collection seamlessly blended elements of bourgeois streetwear and sportswear, creating a distinctive aesthetic that resonated with the city’s youth. In a strategic move leading up to Sabato De Sarno’s highly anticipated debut last year, the Gucci design studio proudly put its signatures on a remarkable collection. It showcased inventive interpretations of the house’s iconic monogram pattern alongside their iconic red and navy stripe. But that was just the beginning.
The collection subtly emphasised Korean sartorial traditions and embraced the contemporary trend of athleisure, introducing sleek bike shorts that exuded both style and comfort. Track zip-up tops and leggings were expertly paired with cropped tailored jackets, creating a striking fusion of sporty and sophisticated elements. There were also Matrix-inspired coats.
The fashion narrative continued to unfold with the introduction of silky slip dresses, exuding an air of effortless elegance, and evening skirts that added a touch of glamour to the ensemble. This extraordinary collection was a testament to the Gucci design studio’s ability to blend classic motifs with modern fashion sensibilities. Each piece spoke volumes, capturing the essence of Gucci’s timeless appeal while embracing the dynamic needs and desires of today’s fashion-forward individuals. It was a true masterpiece that left fashion enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Gucci’s design evolution.
When it came to sports accessories, Gucci went above and beyond to deliver a jaw-dropping lineup that left everyone in awe. The runway became a playground of style as a captivating array of items, ranging from skateboard bags to surfboards, made their striking debut. Gucci’s creativity knew no bounds as they seamlessly integrated these sporty elements into their high-fashion world. The skateboard bags added a cool and edgy vibe, combining functionality with impeccable design. Meanwhile, the surfboards showcased an unexpected fusion of beach culture and luxury fashion, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the runway. These sports accessories became more than just props; they became bold statements, capturing the essence of Gucci’s audacious spirit. They represented a fusion of worlds where athleticism and style intersected in the most captivating and unexpected ways. Gucci once again proved its ability to redefine fashion boundaries and create moments of pure excitement and delight.
The electrifying energy of the runway spilled over into the star-studded front row, creating a spectacle of glamour and anticipation. A constellation of global Gucci ambassadors illuminated the scene, including the captivating presence of Dakota Johnson and the newly appointed Alia Bhatt. Joining them were a constellation of Korean superstars. From the magnetic allure of New Jeans to the enchanting aura of IU and the irresistible charm of Shin Min-a, the front row was a constellation of talent and style. The stage was further set ablaze with the attendance of Itzy, Woo Do-Hwan, Bibi, Ive, and Irene, whose presence elevated the excitement to new heights. And that was just the beginning. The star-studded lineup expanded to include celebrated personalities from beloved shows and films. The likes of Lee Jung Jae from the groundbreaking series Squid Game, Jung Kyungho from the heartwarming Hospital Playlist, and Lim Ji-Yeon from the enthralling drama The Glory were in attendance, adding an extra layer of allure to the already dazzling event.
