Back in January, a series of casting videos, posted to Gucci’s official Instagram page, sparked rumours that the brand’s upcoming campaign would feature an all-black cast.
Gucci recently unveiled its Pre-Fall 2017 campaign, which does in fact feature a completely black cast of models. Titled “Soul Scene,” the campaign draws inspiration from iconic Malian photographer Malick Sidibé, who often photographed parties in Bamako, Mali. Gucci was also inspired by England’s Northern Soul movement, a musical era influenced by African American soul music.
“Dance is an important part of this story and consequently the casting reflects this. However, it is also the case that [Gucci designer] Alessandro Michele has always celebrated diversity in all of its forms in his approach to his work,” a Gucci spokesperson tells Business of Fashion.