Gucci: Tinker, Sailor, Playboy, Spy
By Michelle Taylor
Photos by Giovanni Pucci

MILAN, Jun 30, 2005/ FW/ --- A new era comes to Gucci as menswear designer John Ray changes the brand’s image from sexy to dashing elegance with a wink of mischief.

Gucci, which has been primarily known for its contemporary sexy appeal during the heyday of Tom Ford is turning a new leaf with its Spring 2006 menswear collection.

White double-breasted jackets to cable-knit sweaters, elastic waistband on trousers and Hampton-esque sailor looks, it was a 180-degree turn from the almost futuristic towards reminiscence of the past.

Yet, although the Gucci gent had remained hedonistic, there is something elegant in his aura, courtesy of morphing Humprey Bogart and Sean Connery’s James Bond.

There is even Robert Redford’s Gatsby in the mix as seen in the tuxedos and white bathrobes.

But to accuse the collection to be derivative will be wrong. It is definitely Gucci that kept its air of casualness, with modishness as an added spice.

And as the Milan menswear season ends wherein one of the strongest trends is the sailor look, John Ray won two of the most important facets needed by a fashion house – the retail buyers and the retail consumers.

Gucci

Gucci

Gucci

Gucci