Gucci Fall 2026 : Is Demna Doing Balenciaga at Gucci… or a weaker Tom Ford ?
- kikokurative
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Or is Demna just doing Demna ? That’s what we’re going to explore together in this article.
Gucci Fall 2026 marks the first real runway show where Demna Gvasalia is fully involved at 100%. Even though it’s clear that the designer had already made a significant impact on the Pre-Fall 2026 collection, this show represents his first clear manifesto for the house.
The show has generated a lot of buzz, both positive and negative. I wanted to share my opinion and unpack some of the inspirations behind this collection.
Before the show, several visuals were released, including a photo featuring punks, which sparked a lot of reactions.
In the end, nothing truly punk appeared on the runway. Just because a model wears a Gucci-colored mohawk doesn’t mean there’s any real punk spirit.
It’s understandable that those who are part of or have been part of the punk movement feel frustrated. Many are tired of seeing their aesthetic used for ultra-capitalist purposes, with no real connection to the original ideology of the movement.
That being said…
“Balenciaga at Gucci” ?
The show has faced sharp criticism. Some claimed Demna was doing Balenciaga at Gucci; others said it was a pale imitation of the Tom Ford era (1994–2004). There’s some truth to this, perhaps. But above all, Demna is doing… Demna.
He completely transformed Balenciaga and intends to make a similar shift at Gucci. Just look at the footwear : the similarities are undeniable, massive volumes, strong silhouettes, instantly recognizable approach. This is pure Demna.
He also arrived at Gucci with part of his team from Balenciaga. So the resemblances are no coincidence.
A Bold Turn by Kering
Some Gucci enthusiasts are disappointed, even worried, about Demna’s arrival. This first show resonated negatively with some of them.
But when François-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering, appointed Demna, everyone knew Gucci would take a radical turn.
Some creative directors almost entirely defer to a house’s heritage. Others assert their universe with force, think of Hedi Slimane, for example. That’s precisely what I find interesting about Demna : his universe is extremely strong. Whether you love it or not, his signature is immediately recognizable, and that has to be acknowledged.
The Assumed Shadow of Tom Ford
Demna is now at Gucci, a century-old house. In asserting his style, he cannot ignore the brand’s history. He has drawn heavily from the golden decade of Tom Ford at Gucci (1994–2004) and does not hide it.
“For my generation, his Gucci really introduced sex appeal into fashion.” — Demna
Several Gucci Looks from Tom Ford Era
In this Fall 2026 show, we see the sexy, provocative, and luxurious side of Tom Ford : gilding, sequins, suggested nudity (though far less than Tom Ford, of course), extremely slim models, muscular men, fur, leather, sunglasses… Many elements recall that era.
Kate Moss, Gucci Fall 2026
But everything is reinterpreted in a more modern, direct spirit that fits the casting and the times.
“Gucci is fun.” — Demna
Rapper Fakemink walking the runway with his phone in hand, Vivian Jenna Wilson, Elon Musk’s daughter, in a white dress on the catwalk, Esdeekid and Fakemink performing after the show…
Demna brings more than clothes : he brings energy.
This isn’t ultra-conceptual poetry or niche references. He wants something simpler, more direct, and more playful.
It also shows in the pieces : they’re very wearable, almost simplistic. Some might say the show doesn’t meet Gucci’s expected level of refinement. Personally, that’s exactly what I appreciated.
Demna’s Streetwear DNA
Demna is a child of streetwear. What he did with Vêtements in collaboration with Reebok, and his work at Balenciaga especially on footwear has left a mark on the industry. We all remember the worldwide success of the Triple S.
He’s already starting to bring this approach to Gucci : crossbody bags, caps, monogrammed belt bags, Double G belts… Classic Gucci codes that have been widely reclaimed by the streets and resonate with a broader audience.
Looking at this show, it’s easy to picture wearing the pieces. Many individual items even full looks, like Fakemink’s feel instantly wearable.
Fakemink for Gucci Fall 2026
A Chapter That Will Divide
Demna opens a new chapter at Gucci. He will frustrate some, delight others. As always, his work divides opinions.
But one thing is certain : he is one of the most important designers of our generation. And regardless of what you think of this direction, his tenure at Gucci will undoubtedly leave a mark on the house’s history.
Comments