Alessandro Michele’s Vision: Blending Classic Elegance with Eclecticism
Alessandro Michele's appointment as creative director at Valentino is a defining moment for the brand. Known for his transformative work at Gucci, Michele is celebrated for his maximalist approach, blending vintage inspirations with modern, gender-fluid designs. At Valentino, he brings a fresh perspective that introduces both whimsy and sophistication into the storied brand’s legacy. His debut collection at Valentino, for example, demonstrates an exciting blend of past and present.
Michele’s work is unmistakably his own, yet it respects the history of the brands he works with. At Valentino, he begins by looking to the archives, particularly the iconic pieces from the 1960s and 1970s. Houndstooth patterns from the 60s and romantic dresses from the 70s are reimagined through his distinctive lens, as seen in pieces like the Valentino Garavani Voyage Imaginarie Long Sleeve Shirt, the Valentino Garavani Indigo Cady Couture Silk Maxi Gown, and the Valentino Garavani Bay By Bay Trainers, with touches of subversion and maximalist details that challenge the boundaries of traditional luxury fashion.
Michele is well known for his gender-fluid approach to fashion. His collections often break down the traditional barriers between menswear and womenswear, celebrating inclusivity and individualism. His work at Valentino is no different—each piece in his debut collection is infused with a sense of freedom and possibility, encouraging wearers to express themselves without fear of conformity. Through the lens of Michele’s creative direction, Valentino evolves into a more progressive and open-minded luxury brand.
Maximalism and Subversion: Key Features of Michele’s Valentino Collection