Discover Alessandro Michele’s Debut Collection For Valentino Garavani
From signature party dresses to versatile coats and sumptuous accessories, this collection celebrates the art of getting dressed, with timeless pieces for every occasion
Few designers have the ability to enchant quite like Alessandro Michele. In this increasingly digitized world, it’s rare that we are transported – in our minds at least – to another place and time; rarer still is when that escapism occurs through clothing. Having taken the helm of Maison Valentino in April 2024, in his debut collection for the Italian house, the renowned Italian designer demonstrates exactly why he’s this generation’s sartorial poet, with a collection imbued with history, modernity and narrative threads that communicate a thousand words without a whisper. Each look feels like a silent film, with its own entire tale to tell.
Evocative and endlessly alluring, the collection pays homage to the spirit of the maison from its historic headquarters at the Mignanelli Palace – a place Michele calls “magical”. Inside this Ancient Roman palace, built around 1575 for a noble family, Michele imagined a world filled with wonder and whimsy, where women breezed through capacious rooms; where chandeliers hung from their ears as well as the ceiling, where gowns were de rigueur as garments of everyday grandeur.
The collection is rich and sumptuous, and perfectly makes the case for the art of getting dressed – and dressing up. It’s the antithesis of pared-back luxury, with pieces that demand attention and bring refinement and a ritualistic feel to each outfit, from dawn until dusk. Jewelry proves the ultimate adornment: think ropes of pearls embellished with a corsage; striking orb-like earrings to adorn each lobe and Twenties-era turban hats in metallic and pastel silks that conjure Hollywood movie stars and the Italian Riviera all at once.
Meanwhile, signature separates form the backbone of the collection, where wonder seamlessly meets wearability. Tactile miniskirts in ‘fantasy tweeds’ can just as easily be worn with delicate blouses as they can with turtleneck tops, an understated T-shirt or sweater. Sumptuous party dresses feature feminine, ruffled cuffs, hemlines and necklines, which feel undeniably modern in a miniature length. The mood is after-hours, but with a vibe that’s suitable for day. Crafted from exquisite organza that brings refinement and lightness, these pieces are a timeless choice for weddings and garden parties, or edge things up for the midnight hour with a signature red lip.
“The collection is rich and sumptuous, and perfectly makes the case for the art of getting dressed – and dressing up
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A more muted color palette gives way to a rich purple – a traditionally noble shade that offers a striking switch-up from the collection’s more romantic ivory hues. Hero mini dresses feel bold, bright and beautiful, and are perfectly contrasted with Valentino Garavani accessories for a look that is feminine and modern. For the ultimate luxe look, layer the midi-length ‘fantasy tweed’ overcoat on top and let its plush collar and cuffs lend extra glamour. During the winter season, when the mercury drops and a coat becomes an essential part of any outfit, it will prove a versatile ally you’ll want to reach for again and again.
Of course, no Michele collection would be complete without go-to handbags to fully furnish the everyday. Capacious shoulder bags feature jewelry-like straps in two-tone leathers – a cool, contemporary alternative to buckle-clasp hardware – which will make a stunning statement on these work-to-weekend bags. Meanwhile, crossbody styles in tactile canvas and leather feature a contrast piping that is retro yet robust, and ideal for on-the-go days.
Memorable, magical and timeless – no matter which piece you choose, Alessandro Michele’s debut collection for Valentino Garavani is sure to become a lifelong treasure in your closet.
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