In the hushed halls of Gucci’s Milan headquarters, anticipation hangs thick in the air. Sabato De Sarno, the brand’s new creative director, is gearing up for his debut men’s show at Milan Fashion Week. As I step into his office, De Sarno exudes an air of focused determination amidst the looming deadline.
A New Chapter
Formerly a behind-the-scenes figure at Prada and Valentino, De Sarno’s ascension to the helm of Gucci’s design team marks a significant shift in his career trajectory. Tasked with leading over 200 designers, he approaches his role with humility and a commitment to collaboration. For De Sarno, the creative process is a collective endeavor, not a solitary pursuit of glory.
A Departure from the Past
De Sarno’s vision for Gucci diverges sharply from his predecessor’s flamboyant aesthetic. While Alessandro Michele’s tenure was characterized by maximalist opulence, De Sarno favors a more restrained and pragmatic approach to fashion. His debut women’s collection signaled a departure from spectacle, focusing instead on wearable daywear that celebrates individuality over ostentation.
The Philosophy of Fashion
At the heart of De Sarno’s design philosophy is a belief in the authenticity of fashion. He eschews the notion of clothing as mere costume, preferring instead to create garments that reveal rather than conceal the wearer’s identity. For De Sarno, fashion is a reflection of real life—a sentiment he seeks to imbue in every piece he creates.
Facing Criticism
De Sarno’s inaugural collection garnered mixed reviews from critics, with some questioning its lack of spectacle. However, he remains steadfast in his vision, unfazed by external opinions. To him, fashion is a serious craft that merits respect and diligence, not frivolous commentary. His commitment to his vision is unwavering, regardless of public perception.
A Bold Statement
For his debut menswear collection, De Sarno takes a bold and unexpected approach. Building on the themes of his previous show, he presents a mirrored interpretation of Gucci Ancora—a celebration of continuity and evolution. Each look in the men’s collection corresponds to one from the women’s, underscoring De Sarno’s commitment to coherence and coherence.
Embracing Individuality
Born and raised in Naples, De Sarno’s personal journey informs his design sensibility. Fashion, for him, is a means of self-expression and empowerment—a sentiment he hopes to impart through his work. Drawing inspiration from his own experiences, he seeks to create garments that resonate on a deeply personal level.
Conclusion: Confidence in Creativity
As the countdown to his show begins, De Sarno remains unfazed by the pressure of expectations. Confident in the strength of his collection, he looks forward to sharing his vision with the world. For De Sarno, fashion is more than just clothing—it’s a medium through which stories are told, identities are shaped, and dreams are realized. And with each stitch, he stitches a new chapter in the storied legacy of Gucci.
