Gucci Embraces Pro-Choice References Throughout Cruise Collection

From ELLE

Last night, the fashion set headed to the Capitoline Museums in Rome for Gucci's cruise 2020 show, where creative director Alessandro Michele paid tribute to freedom - particularly with regard to women's bodies, with pro-choice emblems seen throughout the collection.

This year's show location is one of several historic buildings in which Gucci has chosen to present its annual cruise collection, including the Cloisters of Westminster Abbey and the Palatine Gallery at Pitti Palace in Florence.

The Musei Capitolini is considered to be the first modern museum in history, opening to the public in 1734. In Michele's show notes, he described how he visited the cultural location throughout his youth, allowing show-goers a glimpse into his inspiration for the collection, which, as with most of his designs, referenced the conversation between past and present.

A recurring theme throughout the collection was that of a pro-choice point of view, an of-the-moment mention considering the changing laws taking place in Alabama and across the United States. As well as an embroidered uterus on the front of one of the gowns, the feminist slogan from the 1970s, 'My Body, My Choice' was emblazoned on the back of a jacket.

"This piece echoes the creative director’s continuing vision of freedom, equality and self-expression," Gucci wrote on Instagram. "Since founding Chime for Change in 2013 - the global campaign that represents and advocates for gender equality - Gucci has a longstanding commitment to women and girls by funding projects around the world to support sexual and reproductive rights, maternal health, and the freedom of individual choice."

Aside from the political references, the show was also filled with togas and robes inspired by Ancient Rome, jewellery referencing Hercules and pieces which could be likened to the habits worn by nuns. This was met with more niche modern touches, including Mickey Mouse motifs and the bold and eccentric prints and designs that Michele's Gucci has become so well known for.

The likes of Salma Hayek, Harry Styles and Zoe Saldana took in the collection on the front row, alongside editors and influencers, all of which were given a bright torch to hold up in order to see the collection as the show took place almost completely in the dark. Styles then performed alongside Stevie Nicks at the show's after-party.

('You Might Also Like',)

• Best Women's Sliders For Slipping On Poolside This Summer

• Is Your Sun Cream Killing The Coral Reef?

• Gucci's Lipstick Line Has Landed With 58 New Shades