Gucci’s recent seven-part epic, the Alessandro Michele and Gus van Sant co-directed Ouverture of Something That Never Ended, proved that the house’s creative director loves an adventure. Who better, then, for Alessandro to partner up with for the first brand collaboration of his tenure than The North Face, pioneers of innovative expedition gear.
The hotly anticipated pairing has finally been revealed, after it was first teased back in September. Shot and directed by Tom Shea, a film sees a group of Gucci-clad pals gambol across a summery alpine landscape, their bright 70s-inspired skirts, jumpsuits, down jackets and more in sharp relief against the craggy mountains, while the official campaign reminds us of the cosy holiday snaps of friends that, once upon a time, we all used to take.
It’s not just about the ready-to-wear, though. To show that they mean business when it comes to venturing out into the wild, there are sturdy leather hiking boots with Goodyear-welted soles, and hiking backpacks made using ECONYL, a pioneering nylon fabric sourced from regenerated materials such as fishing nets and carpets.
Capping it all off are products that exemplify what collaborations can look like at their best — when two field-leading forces come together to create something new — a The North Face x Gucci sleeping bag and tent, covered in a retro, logo-mash-up print. If ever you harboured any suspicions about glamping, it’s time to cast them aside.
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Credits
Creative Director Alessandro Michele
Art Director Christopher Simmonds
Photographer & Director Daniel Shea
Make-up Thomas De Kluyver
Hair stylist Alex Brownsell