With his Gucci-laced eclecticism in tow, Alessandro Michele’s extensive 171-look 'Avant les Débuts' collection for Valentino heralds a new era for the house
Just two months after being appointed creative director, Alessandro Michele has made his mark on Valentino with the release of his first resort collection for the Roman maison. Dubbed ‘Avant les Débuts,’ the 171 looks for Resort '25 were revealed unceremoniously, reportedly shown to a select group of editors over Zoom before being published online.
The collection is the result of Michele’s emergence in Valentino’s archive. Blending his own, gender-fluid approach to fashion with founder Valentino Garavani’s ineffable elegance, Michele’s intention was to bring about “a real wardrobe,” as told to Vogue. “I’m deep in conversation with the clothes he created and with his life, and I’ve often had the impression of having him seated next to me,” Michele said.
Latching on to Valentino’s Romanesque opulence, Michele’s looks are high-level maximalism: layered pearl necklaces, oversized fur cuffs and (the now almost emblematic) pussy bow blouses. Frills, florals and geometric ‘70s prints nestled with corduroy. Preppy pill-box hats, lady-like brooches and sets. Design details that read quintessentially Michele while paying homage to Valentino’s irrevocable and irresistible heritage.
See the full Valentino Resort '25 collection below:
Valentino - Resort 25
