Emmy-winning actress Julia Garner, best known for her captivating role in Ozark, recently returned to Florence for her second time, stepping into what felt like a true Gucci dream. As a longtime friend and ambassador of the iconic Italian fashion house, Garner offers an intimate glimpse into her glamorous Italian routine, the magic of Gucci’s cruise 2026 show and the unforgettable moments that made her experience in Florence truly special. From savoring authentic Italian paninis to exploring the legendary Uffizi Gallery, Garner’s journey effortlessly blends style, culture, and heritage — a perfect reflection of Gucci’s spirit and artistry.
A front-row moment steeped in heritage
Draped in a sculpted tweed micro dress and carrying a soft cream bag, Julia Garner made a striking entrance to the Gucci cruise 2026 show’s front row. Her hair swept elegantly back, she shared laughter and conversation with seatmates Paul Mescal and French-Canadian actor and musician Aliocha Schneider, creating an atmosphere of relaxed glamour.
Though this was only Garner’s second visit to Florence, the Emmy-winning actress is no stranger to Gucci’s spotlight. A longtime friend of the Italian luxury house and a Gucci Beauty ambassador, she embodies the modern Gucci woman: bold, confident, and fashion-forward. Just recently, Garner starred in the brand’s latest campaign, “Keep It Gucci: The Art of Silk,” celebrating the house’s iconic scarves—a symbol deeply embedded in Gucci’s history.
For 2026, Gucci chose Florence as the backdrop for their cruise collection, highlighting the city’s rich connection to the brand’s legacy. Home to the Gucci Archive, Florence offers a living museum of the brand’s evolution since the 1920s. This setting allowed Gucci to present a collection that looks ahead while honoring its past, perfectly matching the occasion where Garner was front and center.
Inside the Gucci experience with Julia Garner
Garner reflected on her favorite Gucci collaborations, highlighting the brand’s ability to reinvent itself while remaining unmistakably Gucci. “They do such a great job with changing things up but still managing to keep their identity,” she shared. Of all the projects, the scarf campaign stood out as especially meaningful to her.
When asked about her first Gucci purchase, Garner smiled, recalling a pair of loafers. “The more worn-down it looks, the better, especially with a loafer,” she explained, revealing her laid-back approach to luxury.
Attending a Gucci show, she said, “I never know what they’re going to bring, but they have something so unique about them—it’s such an event and such an experience.” The unpredictability and spectacle of Gucci’s runway presentations keep her coming back.
Embracing the Italian spirit and glamour routine
Florence was as much about immersing herself in the culture as it was about fashion. Garner’s first stop after landing was an authentic Italian treat: “You have to have some kind of Italian food. The gelato in Florence is exceptional, or just find any sort of Mortadella sandwich. We literally did that—we landed and then we all got a panini.”
Her memories of Florence are deeply personal and cherished. On a previous trip, she visited the Uffizi Gallery, which she describes as “probably my favorite museum in the world.” Its collection, she says, is “so special,” highlighting her appreciation for art beyond the runway.
Preparing for the Gucci cruise show was a rare moment of calm amid her typically hectic schedule. Unlike the usual rush of fashion week, Garner enjoyed a full day of leisure, including museum visits and exploring Florence’s charm. Her beauty ritual included multiple face masks the night before and a soothing bath if available—self-care essentials before stepping into the spotlight.
Beauty essentials and a look that speaks for itself
Traveling with key beauty products is a must for Garner. “I always have my Augustinus Bader cream with me,” she noted. Dry eyes are a concern, so eye drops and 111SKIN eye patches are part of her go-to travel kit. For the show’s glam, Garner favors a light, natural makeup look that enhances her features without masking them. “I never want it to look like you can’t tell who it is. I don’t love that kind of makeup,” she said, emphasizing authenticity over heavy glam.
Her outfit for the evening channeled a playful yet chic ‘60s vibe, with nods to Parker Posey’s iconic look in Party Girl. “It was honestly something that I would own!” Garner enthused, highlighting how the look perfectly fused her personal style with Gucci’s bold aesthetic.
Crafting looks with stylist Elizabeth Saltzman
Collaboration is key in Garner’s approach to fashion, especially with her stylist Elizabeth Saltzman. “It’s such a beautiful brand, so anybody’s going to find something that speaks to them,” she explained. The process is playful and experimental, reflecting fashion’s role as a form of self-expression.
With Gucci’s stunning collections as their palette, Garner and Saltzman create looks that feel authentic and effortlessly stylish. “We just play around and that’s the fun thing about fashion and clothes,” she said. This spirit of joy and creativity perfectly mirrors the energy Garner brought to her second unforgettable experience in Florence.
Julia Garner’s second time in Florence was more than a glamorous occasion—it was a seamless blend of fashion, culture, and personal expression, all wrapped in the timeless allure of Gucci. As she continues to evolve as a muse and ambassador, one thing is clear: her Gucci story is just beginning.
