Cynthia Cheng Mintz

OK, it comes to no surprise that the 1970s are back.  However, Gucci, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, takes it even one step further, making the 1970s even more extreme.  The collection’s most dominant colours were in the greens and teals.  Purples and burnt oranges/tans were also seen.  Fall/Winter 2011 is filled with fur-trimmed coats, tall, high-heel boots, longer hemlines and wider-legged pants as well as belted jackets.  Some of the looks had a bit of a “sophisticated pimp” vibe, if we’re even allowed to use the “p” word for a brand with such history in the fashion world (what’s very interesting is that Pink Tartan had a somewhat similar concept for the Spring/Summer 2011 collection, but with much brighter colours).   

Most of the looks were very sleak, with skinny belts on many which accentuate the waist.   Most looks are also quite wearable on most  body types – though I would not suggest the bulkier fur looks or some of the less shapely skirts unless you are long and lean.  It also seems that hats are back in style, with fedoras adorned by many of the models.  Sheers, which have been seen in New York and London, were also seen, especially towards the end of the show.  The flowy, organza fabrics on these dresses were decorated with rose petal boas wrapped around the shoulders.  These dresses were, for the most part, in darker hues, except for the finale, which was in yellow – a great eye-popping piece after a series of darker pieces.

Sitting in front of my computer watching the live stream this morning, I wasn’t sure what to make out of the collection.  At first, the “sophisticated pimp” look was a little too much for me – as if Gucci was trying to play on the hip hop industry and their obsession with big brand names.  However, this may not be the case at all, as Gucci creative director, Frida Giannini, mentioned in a post-show interview that the collection was supposed to be very “uptown.”