Valentino, the iconic fashion house based in Rome, made a remarkable start to the menswear runway season in Milan. The highly anticipated fashion show took place in the stunning cloisters of the Università degli Studi di Milano, setting the stage for an elegant and sophisticated event. Adding to the excitement, singer d4vd delivered an unforgettable performance that added an extra layer of charm to the show.
The atmosphere before the show was buzzing with excitement as fans eagerly awaited the arrival of their favorite Thai singers and K Pop stars. The audience was star-studded, with Asian celebrities and renowned Japanese models Shuzo and Yamato in attendance. The presence of these notable figures added to the already electric atmosphere.
Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli unveiled a breathtaking collection for the spring-summer 2024 season. Blending timeless styles with contemporary elements, the designs boasted luxurious tech fabrics and a subtle yet captivating color palette. The collection showcased a vibrant range of colors, including bubble gum pink, soft copper, starless night black, dazzling fuchsia, and putty gray. However, the pieces that truly stood out were the ones featuring blown-up prints, with orchid petals and peonies adorning jackets and shirt jackets.
In his program notes, Piccioli explained that the collection aimed to challenge conventional perceptions of tailoring and transform it into a form of individual expression. Throughout the show, elements of couture were seamlessly integrated. Ecru blazers, French blue work jackets embroidered with fabric flowers, and trench coats resembling dressing gowns were among the highlights. Pull quotes from the novel “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara, the editor-in-chief of the New York Times’ T magazine, adorned many of the looks. These quotes, such as “We are so old, we have become young again,” were cleverly printed on denim jeans, crisp white poplin shirts, and classic blazers.
The climax of the show arrived during the finale, as d4vd (David Anthony Burke) delivered an extraordinary rendition of The Smiths classic “There is a Light That Never Goes Out.” This heartfelt performance served as a fitting tribute to Valentino’s generosity. The brand made a significant donation to the Università degli Studi, supporting scholarships and investing in educational pathways and local communities. This act of philanthropy showcased Valentino’s commitment to nurturing young minds and the next generation.
Valentino’s dedication to the future is evident in their ongoing projects. Following their couture show, The Beginning, in Rome, where they invested in creating a green space in the city center, the brand has plans to reuse materials from the all-white catwalk set-up and build an eco-space in central Milan. This commitment goes beyond the fashion show itself, demonstrating Valentino’s dedication to sustainable practices and their support for the future of education and the environment.
Useful links:
1. Valentino Official Website
2. Università degli Studi di Milano Official Website
