Valentino Spring/Summer 2025: The Return of Alessandro Michele
This Sunday, all eyes were on the Valentino fashion show at the "Pavillon des Folies" designed by the most inventive artistic director of his generation.
Alessandro Michele makes his anticipated debut at Valentino for the Spring-Summer 2025 season, hosting his first show at Avenue de la Porte Châtillon. The venue, resembling a forgotten house suspended in time with period furniture draped in fabrics as if in slumber, sets a surreal tone for the event. Michele, a celebrated designer known for his maximalist aesthetic, invited an array of high-profile guests such as Damiano David, Jared Leto, Harry Styles, Elton John, Florence Welch, Hari Nef, Carla Bruni, and Salma Hayek to witness his artistic vision.
Whether adored or criticized, Michele's work is unmistakable, marked by his love for opulence, prints, and bold colors. Having previously shaped Gucci's identity, he now weaves his signature style into Valentino. The show opens with a striking black and white dress, adorned with bow ties and paired with red tights—a nod to the iconic Rosso Valentino, the house's trademark red shade. Models walk a catwalk designed to resemble a shattered mirror, symbolizing disruption and transformation.
Michele's collection explores exaggerated volumes with oversized hats, turbans, long veils, and an array of textures—sequins, feathers, lace tights, and ruffles—paired with 1970s-inspired patterns like polka dots and paisley. Jewelry takes center stage, with pearls and dazzling ornaments adorning the neck, ears, nose, and mouth. Despite the bold individuality of each look, the collection is unified by a genderless spirit, inviting wearers to embrace Michele's distinctive poetry for Valentino with confidence and daring.
