The decision follows Creative Director Sabato De Sarno's recent London show at the Tate Modern, which paid homage to Gucci's British connections. It was in London where founder Guccio Gucci worked as a luggage porter at the Savoy Hotel in 1897. His observations of the elegant guests and their refined luggage inspired him to create his own leather goods business upon returning to Italy.
Florence holds particular significance for the Italian fashion house - it was here that Guccio Gucci opened his first leather goods workshop in 1921 at Via della Vigna Nuova. The city, known for its artisanal traditions and Renaissance heritage, remains central to Gucci's identity despite its global expansion under the Kering group.
The exact location for the May show has not yet been disclosed. The house's connection to Florence extends beyond its founding - the Gucci Garden museum and the Gucci ArtLab, a development and production facility, are both located in the Tuscan capital.
De Sarno, who joined Gucci in 2023, has been exploring the brand's archives while developing his creative vision. His tenure has seen a focus on balancing Gucci's heritage with contemporary design elements.
The Cruise 2026 presentation will be the latest in a series of significant fashion shows held in Florence, joining other luxury brands that have chosen historic Tuscan venues for their collections.