As a brand and on the runway, Gucci has traditionally maintained a subdued, sophisticated type of iconic reputation. With the entry of new creative director Alesandro Michele, however, the Spring 2016 Ready to Wear collection has retained the sophisticated aesthetic but entered into a whole new phase in the evolution of the label.

The 67 ensembles draw some parallels across the board, but the only binding element between all of them is a sense of illusion— it’s all ephemeral. Namely, two-dimensional cartoonish designs characterized by bold black outlines are set off by flowy, transparent fabrics that bring them to life.

Prints are used extensively, and a bright color palette complemented by use of some neutrals reminds one of  the runways of Miu Miu.

Motifs of transparency, the aforementioned cartoon illusion, and colors dominate.

Add embroidery, symmetric embellishment, and tasteful texture mixing; the effect reads as Frida Kahlo-meets-pop art for an aesthetically pleasing product.

The collection is heterogeneous and without seeing it for oneself, it’s hard to imagine that it would be cohesive. But by playing with dimensionality and maximalism, Gucci seems to have painted a beautiful picture of contradictions; a science fiction rudimentariness; a romantic modernism; an elegant chaos.