Gucci celebrates freedom and diversity with Cruise 2020 show

 The Gucci fashion house showed its Cruise 2020 collection, Tuesday, May 28 at the Capitoline Museums in Rome, Italy.

This history-steeped location was plunged into darkness for the occasion, with a handful of specially selected guests taking a seat to discover a collection channeling opulence -- even eccentricity -- and rich in references to 1970s Italy, reflecting the Italian brand and its creative director's commitment to freedom, self-expression, diversity and gender equality.

Gucci showed its Cruise 2020 collection in the historical setting of the Capitoline Museums in Rome, founded in the 15th century. This spectacular setting showcases the history of Ancient Rome and is home to a multitude of statues, which stood among the guests present to take in the show. Guests took their seats in a room plunged into darkness, discovering collection silhouettes thanks to torches left on their seats.

Alessandro Michele made plenty of references to 1970s Italy in this latest Cruise offering, celebrating freedom, self-expression and diversity. These notions were channeled via details such as a sequinned uterus embroidered on a long-sleeved pleated gown.

The collection also referenced Ancient Rome, nodding to the show's setting, with draped gowns evoking the togas of yore.

Alessandro Michele also created several pieces featuring messages, slogans and significant dates. A jacket, for example, featured the feminist slogan, "My Body My Choice," while another look featured the date, "22.05.1978," evoking Italy's law number 194 legalizing abortion under certain conditions.