There is little in the world of luxury fashion that sits higher on the echelons than Valentino haute couture. The iconic Italian house, under the helm of creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, has continuously impressed by seamlessly melding artisanal craftsmanship of the highest degree with an understated and timeless elegance.
For the house’s fall/winter 2023 show, Piccioli wanted to bridge the concepts of ‘simplicity’ and ‘paradoxes’. Held at the dreamy Château de Chantilly in France, the collection was a masterclass in silhouette and draping. Evening wear was inventive and contemporary, its deceptively classic cuts sitting on the wearer’s body like second skin. Hooded capes, asymmetrical tunics and floral-printed dresses all imbued a sense of sophistication and savoir faire long synonymous with the house. The Valentino Garavani Un Château Bow mule also made its debut on the runway, a sleek satin flat adorned with a signature oversized bow. Now a signature accessory of the house, its versatile design allows it to be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Ahead of the spring/summer 2024 show, there is earnest anticipation as to what awaits. Titled ‘Valentino Le Salon’, one can expect nostalgic references that date back to the house’s rich archives. A strong showing of graceful evening wear and impeccable tailoring fit for the red carpet is presumed, perhaps with an added emphasis on fur coats and feathered separates. The brand’s signature palette of red, white and pink will outline the collection, and intricate embellishment in the form of sequins and embroidery will no doubt make an appearance.
Below, tune in to the Valentino spring/summer 2024 haute couture show, happening live from Paris on Thursday, 25 January at 2.30am SGT.
