Gucci Spring Summer 2007

In print, the color scheme of this collection sounds hideous and frightening: black, white, scarlet, and plum; but when dashed across countless silhouettes, the reality is quite different. The use of color and clash within the line awakens the long dormant pallet. It works due to structure and lines within the pieces. Though color remains to be the most visible thread through each piece, I have found other viewpoints. Many of these pertain to science.

The overall symbol of the collection is evolution. The first aspect of this theme is genetic variation. Within all species, differing trait combinations exist or variations within the same gene pool. The clothing in the collection appears to be differing combinations of the same color scheme and basic feel. Though the collection evolves, there is little change from piece to piece. The likeness of texture and drama creates a wearable industrial collection- a throwback to 60's mod.

The second aspect of this theme is the evolution of society and the morals associated with it. The first piece is a mid-thigh length black trench coat with red and plum trim, also known as extreme structure. The line maintains this architecture until midway through the collection. By the finale, the pieces reach a sweeping and dramatic lack of structure (pictured above) with remnants of what used to be (used with color on the above gown). Structure and order are not easily maintained, and when let to their own devices, will deteriorate. Safety is associated with structure and specifics while creativity and artistry with a lack of form. The collection moves from touchable to something intangible: a mentality. In a way, the line is associated with politics, although I see left wing and right wing politics very black and white. Possibly the collection is about the deterioration of the government as whole instead of certain workings from within.

The Gucci Spring Summer 2007 collection is a fascinating take on the ever growing trend, incorporating a mod-chic take on industrial shapes. Bravo!