Valentino is one of my favorite designers. The detailing and craftsmanship of his gowns are exquisite. Valentino was prepared for the fashion world creatively and aesthetically, but he lacked a business mindset. His earlier brand had a rough start, but by fate he met Giancarlo Giammetti at a cafe. Giammetti became the brains of the brand, which eventually skyrocketed. Valentino left the brand in 2008.
Valentino’s gowns are romanticized pieces of art. So much thought and time goes into each garment. Many celebrities wear Valentino gowns to glamorous award shows like the Oscars. Anne Hathaway is a known Valentino supporter, who recently made a public apology for choosing Prada over her good friend Valentino because the Valentino gown was so similar to Amanda Seyfried’s dress. This just goes to show how important Valentino is in not only the fashion world, but also in the entertainment industry.
Today, the company is lead by Creative Directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli. I am obsessed with the 2013 Fall/Winter Ready-to-Wear line. Black and white is an evident trend. I love the little black and blue structured trapeze dresses with white lace collars. There is a lot of lace, which is signature to Valentino. Watch the show to see this great collection and be prepared for the Yeah Yeah Yeahs to get stuck in your head.
— Alexa
Photos by Jay L. Clendenin and Liz O. Baylen | MCT
