.HACK//STYLE

GUCCI presents The Hacker Project, transmuting signature silhouettes and codes of BALENCIAGA and GUCCI to create uniquely meaningful pieces that will set you apart in a crowd

OVER THE LAST 100 YEARS, GUCCI HAS CAPTURED THE IMAGINATION WITH STORIES CHARACTERISED BY UNEXPECTED BIRTHS AND GROUND-BREAKING REVOLUTIONS. Founded in Florence, Italy, Guccio Gucci pioneered the eponymous fashion house with a deep affection for quality craftsmanship. His sophisticated styles quickly drove his leather goods to the forefront of the pack among the tastemakers of the era.

Under Tom Ford’s creative direction in the 1990s, Gucci guided the world through a sexual awakening, with ambiguous, suggestive, and luxurious styles that remain a pivotal reference point in present-day trends. Today, Creative Director Alessandro Michele perpetuates this motif of exceptional savoir-faire, artistic reinvention, and thought-provoking fashion by transforming Gucci’s aesthetic universe within The Hacker Project held in the Aria collection.

It is a “hacking lab made of incursions and metamorphoses,” Michele describes. Borrowing elements from Balenciaga’s recognisable repertoire with permission, he superimposes it onto classic Gucci icons. Contrastingly, Michele also commandeers silhouettes from Demna Gvasalia, reskinning it with Gucci flair.

The resulting co-branded apparel items are unique creations that ultimately reflect an exploration of authenticity within the fashion industry. These pieces will have you doing a doubletake. They mark a disruptive turning point in fashion history, sure to appeal to collectors and loyal devotees of both luxury Houses.

The Hacker Project is not a collaboration or a partnership. The inspiration was simply a direct result of Michele’s enthusiastic reaction to Gvasalia’s first show for Balenciaga. While it blurs the boundaries between creative territories, it intends to be a selfcontained expression of reverence and homage.

Michele fervently believes that a dialogue that flows in all directions is critical to the creative process – the secret ingredient that goes into designing a collection and thriving within the fashion industry. The hybrid venture includes looks, bags with coordinated small leather goods, footwear, and accessories that make an impactful statement. The ubiquitous GG monogram takes on a vintage look, widened in proportions to celebrate Gucci’s centenary celebrations.

Gucci gives Balenciaga’s Hourglass Bag a new identity, dressed in two of the most memorable Gucci fabrics: the Flora and GG Supreme canvas. First introduced for fall 2019 by Gvasalia, the Hourglass Bag has been a favourite among the masses, favoured for its sleek, structured appeal and deviation from mundane silhouettes. Uniquely curved in shape, the Hourglass Bag features a flap closure accented with a matte gold B. Straddling the gap between futuristic and traditional, the form of the Hourglass Bag promises to retain relevance for seasons to come.

Beloved Gucci bags effortlessly join in the fray, including the Jackie 1961, Dionysus, GG Marmont and Horsebit 1955. Emblazoned with Balenciaga’s signature diagonal logo on GG supreme canvas and leather, these hacked styles draw the eye with hypnotic ease. Tracing your gaze over the repetitive logo script reinforces an indistinguishable pleasure in subversion. It does not belong – but it is a delight to behold.

In footwear, Gucci usurps Balenciaga’s Triple S collection made for actively stylish men and women alike. Heavily padded, the triple-soled sneakers build on running, basketball, and track shoes. The moulds are stacked to achieve an unconventional silhouette exuding power and stability. Meanwhile, Gucci Pump Heels and Balenciaga Knife Heeled Boots feature overlapping Balenciaga logos on the Flora pattern or bold white lettering on the GG monogram.

Within the ready to wear collection, Balenciaga silhouettes make an appearance in looks for men and women. These outfits flaunt opulent details, from sequins and leather trims to special technical constructions as seen in the presence of “pantashoe” leggings, gratuitously adorned in enlarged versions of the GG pattern. An oversized Balenciaga Jumbo Printed Bomber steals the show in one of Aria’s most iconic visuals, paired with sparkling knitwear. Michele also mixes House codes in silk ribbons and silk shawl accessories that promise to up the ante of any autumnal look.

The Hacker Project invokes a strong sense of excitement and hope. As the world begins to stir from a surreal (and nightmarish) shared experience, change and rebellion from the norms are the ambrosia many of us crave. Gucci arrives in a timely fashion to sate that hunger, with meaningful and stunning visual outlets of expression. The radical collection is available from 15 November onwards at the Gucci store in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.