Valentino Garavani had aspired to become a fashion designer from a very young age. He soon travelled to Paris to gain experience at the prestigious Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche fashion houses, before returning to Rome to set up his own namesake label in 1959. The brand gained notoriety when Jacqueline Kennedy purchased numerous Valentino dresses and over the years became a loyal client of the designer and the label. Valentino was soon known for their unique haute couture and glamorous red dresses, in the shade which became aptly named ‘Valentino red’. The label expanded throughout the years, and Valentino himself directed his final haute couture show in 2008. Since then, Pier Paolo Piccioli has headed the house as Creative Director, and the brand is part of the Valentino Fashion Group.
Now encompassing ready-to-wear, bags, shoes and accessories for men and women, as well as a beauty line, Valentino continues the artisanal design and exceptional craftsmanship which the house has always been known for. Classic silhouettes and a sophisticated edge are common throughout collections, and the label’s elegant aesthetic is catered to a modern audience. Womenswear is feminine and timeless, merging romantic elements with edgy accents seen in details such as studs, chunky jewellery and dramatic embellishment. Monochromatic colour palettes are interrupted by classic Valentino red and glamorous leopard print for a head-turning finish. Popular pieces such as lace mini dresses, logoed t-shirts and iconic Rockstud heels showcase the meeting of beautiful design with a modern edge, creating wearable yet opulent attire for the everyday and beyond.
Menswear sees the same fusion of classic taste with an injection of contemporary sensibilities. Sharp and precise tailoring features throughout collections, met with bold graphics, vibrant prints and, of course, stud detailing. Luxurious cotton shirts are effortless and enduring, while VLTN printed tracksuits exude everyday opulence.
With over 100 stores worldwide, Valentino collections are also available from the brand’s online store, as well as through stockists such as Harrods, Net-a-Porter and My Theresa.