Valentino Bows Out: A Shift in The Iconic House's Direction
Italian powerhouse skips Paris shows after creative director's departure.
Italian fashion house Valentino has announced that it won't be part of Paris Men's Fashion Week and Haute Couture Week in June. This comes after Pierpaolo Piccioli left as creative director last week.
In a brief statement, Valentino said they don't plan on showcasing their upcoming menswear and Haute Couture collections in June 2024 due to recent changes in their creative direction. They emphasized that creativity will remain a top priority for the brand, shaping future collections for both men's and women's wear, while staying true to the brand's essence and Italian heritage.
This decision suggests a transition period for the brand following Piccioli's departure. Piccioli became the sole creative director of Valentino in 2016 after Maria Grazia Chiuri left for Dior. Chiuri and Piccioli had previously worked together at Fendi for 10 years before joining Valentino in 1999 to revamp the accessories division. They later became creative directors of the entire brand in 2008.
Where is the brand heading?
Valentino has hinted that Piccioli's successor will be announced soon, with speculation pointing to former Gucci creative director Alessandro Michele. Michele's potential appointment aligns with Valentino's need for continuity in the industry.
While Valentino could have continued with collections planned under Piccioli's direction, the decision to hold off suggests a desire for a fresh start with the upcoming women's spring/summer 2025 collection.
Paris Men's Fashion Week is scheduled for June 18 to 23, followed by Haute Couture Week from June 24 to 27.
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