Gucci Stages Its Resort Show Runway at a Castle

Gucci’s creative director Alessandro Michele staged his 2023 Cruise runway show in Puglia, Italy, on May 16, inviting several friends of the brand. Among them, Jodie Turner-Smith posed in head-to-toe Gucci: she wore a pair of eye-catching wide-leg sequin pants with vertical red and black stripes styled with a sultry halter-neck and cutout bodysuit in peach lace. The lingerie-style garment was layered underneath a python-print leather trench coat with contrasting red lapels trimmed with black leather and silver studs. The British actress completed her look with Gucci’s Blondie bag in navy suede and a pair of pointy black pumps. Other accessories included a pair of geometrical earrings, a gold choker with blue stone details, and a couple of rings.

The “Queen & Slim” star’s ensemble perfectly matched the venue’s eccentric atmosphere. Castel Del Monte, a 13th-century citadel and castle situated on a hill, was the backdrop for Michele’s Resort collection titled “Cosmogonie,” in reference to constellations. Other VIP guests in attendance included Elle Fanning, who wore a Gucci black double-breasted peak lapel blazer over a white shirt and leather tie, teamed with vibrant fuchsia pants, black platform boots, and a mini Gucci Jackie 1961 bag in black leather; Dakota Johnson in a soft yellow lace slip dress with embroidered glass beads and fringed hum, finished with a red leather jacket, heeled sandals, and a mini black patent leather Gucci Jackie 1961 bag; and Bethann Hardison in a silk faille dress from the Gucci Aria collection.

The show, dedicated to German philosopher Walter Benjamin, presented an array of silhouettes incorporating several of Gucci’s house codes such as vintage-inspired lace, sheer detailing, glittery capes, fur embellishments, and stripe motifs in the brand’s signature red, black, and green. The accessories ran the gamut from large, retro tinted sunglasses and pearl necklaces to lace-up thigh-high boots and patent opera gloves. The models’ looks showcased a mix of historical influences, including ruff collars, Middle Age crinolines, and extravagant headpieces.

Scroll on for a closer look at what the stars wore, and review our favourite pieces from the collection.