Gucci’s Latest Collection Is A Masterclass In Effortless After-Dark Dressing

Feeling out of practice when it comes to perfecting your party-season aesthetic? That’s more than understandable. After months of living under lockdown restrictions – not to mention the fact that last year’s holiday season was something of a damp squib – many of us will be struggling to hit the right sartorial note this time around. Of course, you want to rediscover the joy and ritual of getting all dressed up again, and yet, retaining a comfortable sense of ease and effortlessness has now also become a non-negotiable priority – whatever the occasion.

All of this might sound like a tall order, but this is where Gucci’s latest collection comes in. This season, as ever, the Italian powerhouse has struck the perfect balance between eclecticism, ebullience and ease. Ever since creative director Alessandro Michele took to the helm in 2015, the heritage house has become known and loved for fearless designs that buck faddish trends – in favor of timeless pieces that are reimagined and reinvigorated by Michele’s singular vision.

Take the classic pant suit, for instance. This enduring look has had a treasured place in women’s closets for almost a century, however, this season, Michele has made it feel like an utterly fresh proposition. Gucci’s sumptuous red velvet suit makes for the ultimate after-dark look; as eye-catching as it is understated. Styled with a silk shirt and modern mules, this ’70s-inspired piece makes for an insouciant alternative to more traditional after-dark options. Similarly, a double-breasted, green brocade set feels both festive and cool. And when it comes to accessories, with a statement suit such as this, it’s usually best to stick to delicate gold or silver jewelry.

Another prominent theme in Michele’s latest collection is lace. This sultry option is a staple for date-night dressing, but Michele’s masterful interpretation feels decidedly cool, as well as fearlessly feminine. Exquisitely crafted corsets, second-skin tops and sheer skirts, that can be styled together or separately, are guaranteed to elevate your evening capsule. More directional dressers can take the look up a notch by layering on avant-garde accessories, such as Gucci’s leather reins and crystal pouch bag; these finishing touches are sure to make your look especially memorable.

Of course, for many of us, the holiday season also heralds the arrival of winter, so, if you’re planning on attending alfresco gatherings or parties, a trophy coat is nothing short of a necessity. Set the bar by shrugging Gucci’s monogrammed cape on over your outfit. For added impact, finish with the label’s matching knee-high boots or tap into this season’s equestrian trend with a pair of butter-soft leather riding boots.

Finally, don’t fall into the trap of thinking that going for a cool-girl look means you need to forego glamour. Quite the contrary – confidence, not clothing, is the key to emanating warmth and ease. Plus, it would also be remiss to talk about party season without mentioning evening gowns. Gucci has long been a favorite with red-carpet style icons such as Dakota Johnson, Sienna Miller and Amandla Stenberg, so to say Michele knows how to design a scene-stealing dress is a serious understatement. This season’s pleated gold lamé gown, for example, finished with a contrasting halterneck bodice, is a jaw-dropping creation that will ensure you are most definitely the best-dressed person in any room – wherever the night takes you… After all, when you’re wearing Gucci, you’re always ready to go forth and party.