With the Valentino haute couture spring/summer 2023 show set to show in a couple hours, all eyes are on Pierpaolo Piccioli. His successful fall/winter 2022 collection—staged on the Spanish steps of Rome—paid homage to the brand’s history, honouring the maison’s beginnings by referencing some of Valentino Garavani’s best works. “This is a deeply personal collection, because it’s all about the history of Valentino,” Piccioli had remarked at a pre-show press conference, held at the label’s headquarters in Piazza Mignanelli. And personal it was, with inspiration taken from early collections in Garavani’s career such as the iconic fiesta dress from his debut show.
While Piccioli’s previous collection was a tribute to Garavani and his iconic house, spring/summer 2023 seems to head in the opposite direction. Titled ‘Le Club Couture’, expect a more fun and playful approach to garments that feature recognisable tropes from the maison. Think: sequins, organza and chiffon incorporated into contemporary evening wear, as well as an abundance of feathers on an array of headpieces and outerwear. Valentino’s signature cadmium red—along with bright shades of pink, purple and yellow—are colours fashion lovers have grown accustomed to seeing on the runway, bleeding onto the coats and gowns that have earned Piccioli his prestige.
Witness Piccioli’s vision by tuning in live to the Valentino spring/summer 2023 haute couture show from Paris, on 26 January, at 4.30am Singapore time.