Is that a Balenciaga logo on a Gucci coat? Plus, other remarkable details from the Aria collection

The father of all fashion collaborations is here as Gucci puts a Balenciaga logo on their Aria collection, which pays homage to Gucci’s 100th anniversary.

Artistic directors of fashion brands jumping houses is a common feat now, and so are luxury labels collaborating with niche designers and artists. What isn’t a quotidian occurrence is the coming together of two fashion powerhouses. Which is why the appearance of Balenciaga logos and silhouettes on Gucci’s Aria collection has created an excitement that is palpable, to say the least.

While the two fashion labels fall under the umbrella of Kering, the Italian mega-brand conglomerate, is still a surprising one. This new collaboration or as the brand’s creative director Alessandro Michele sees it, “a hacking lab” from where he pulls out all his fantastic references draws inspiration from the sister brand as well as Gucci’s centennial past. “Crossing the threshold, I have plundered the nonconformist rigour of Demna Gvasalia and the sexual tension of Tom Ford,” says Michele about his borrowing from the designs of two of Kering’s greats for the Aria collection.

A homage to the 100 years of Gucci, the collection captures the various design eras of the brand. Starting from its equestrian start with riding helmets and boots, followed by Tom Ford’s seductive styles and of course, his own melding of prints and colour. Here are some of the interesting details we spotted on the runways, that is sure to keep you intrigued.

Gucci’s signature Flora print with Balenciaga logo on thigh-high boots

A nod to the equestrian heritage with leather harnesses, riding boots and jockey helmets

A Balenciaga Hourglass bag with Gucci monogram print and a B-buckle

Alessandro Michele’s signature anatomical heart minaudières

Crystal noserings and floral Swarovski pieces

All images: Courtesy Gucci