Demna Reinvigorates Tom Ford’s Gucci with the Pre-Fall 2026 Collection

The appointment of new Creative Directors at prestigious design businesses signifies a transformative era in the fashion industry.

Gucci

Following Mathieu Blazy's unveiling of Chanel's latest and much-discussed collection in a New York City underground station, Gucci generated significant discourse among industry insiders with Demna's second presentation for the House, which notably pays tribute to the esteemed Tom Ford era, for the Pre-Fall 2026 collection.

Demna continuously emphasises Gucci's most renowned and famous codes. Tom Ford was undoubtedly one of the House's most illustrious Creative Directors, and Demna acknowledges this while accentuating it and infusing his own viewpoint onto the collection. The Pre-Fall collection establishes the ambiance preceding his inaugural catwalk presentation for the House in February during Milan Fashion Week.

He focusses on ’70s-inspired elements such as Gucci’s iconic GG monogram and web stripes, while integrating a minimalist aesthetic evocative of Tom Ford’s 1990s period. The compilation is showcased as a lookbook photographed by Demna, conceptualising a fictitious Gucci presentation. Pre-Fall extends the concept of “Generation Gucci,” reflecting his continuous exploration of archives and visual codes throughout the various epochs of the brand's history, interpreted through his perspective.

Gucci

These sophisticated, multi-dimensional ensembles transition the wearer from office to evening, incorporating suit-like attire alongside vintage-inspired party garments. The collection commences with lightweight tailoring in archival silk faille, showcasing two-piece suits that include legging-fit trousers and the quintessential Gucci pencil skirt. We observe daily, yet stylish attire such as minimalistic pants featuring seamless construction. Textured coats exhibit an effortless lightness, crafted from sheepskin combined with silk, goat hair, and feathers, adorned with elaborate patterns over sheer bases and linings.

The party attire includes underwear-inspired clothing paired with silk blouses, draped miniskirts accompanied by matching tops, and minimalist gowns crafted from flexible jersey and silk chiffon. Footwear is characterised by elegant lines exemplified in Valigeria-inspired ballerinas and traditional loafers adorned with metallic spikes. A Lunetta Phone+ shoulder bag is presented in classic monogrammed canvas, accompanied by a Jackie 1961 reinterpreted into a compact rectilinear form, softened with calfskin and crocodile leather, while the Dionysus adopts a new angular and avant-garde silhouette.