It began with an opening of several navy looks; from head to toe, Valentino used block colouring to present classic smart styles. Deviating from this classicism to also include folk design, retro print was splashed across a substantial part of the collection, mixing earthy tones against pastels. The art deco inspiration included floral design that was boldly laid out and contrasted against an eye print.
Focusing on key details, Valentino used intricate design and embellishments to update simple outfits into impressive, bold pieces. Carefully carved and cut-out patterns against all white ensembles made for a lace effect that transformed plain white shirts. The delicate carvings used circular motions and natural scenic prints to romanticise the collection.
Oriental inspiration lead to subtle watercolour prints against satin fabric. Forming large seahorses, the reflective pattern mixed orange and blue together. The blurring shades created the appearance of scales, whilst the deep blue background was reminiscent of water. In keeping with the natural theme, golden branches and star fish were printed onto mint green and peach dresses, adding a soft touch.
The Grecian gowns that followed used asymmetrical necklines and light, sheer material with deep V-necks to portray a gothic take on spring/summer. With velvet panels, black beading and loose skirts, the gypsy inspired collection draped transparent material around the models, shrouding them in a wash of dark colour.
Contrasting against the harsh shades, the collection lightened up towards the finale, using dusty pink and clean white for the colour palette. Sheer fabric fell around the legs, revealing gladiator sandals, reminiscent of dancer’s pumps. Whilst the fit and shape of the garment resembled modern ballerina gowns.
Valentino’s varied use of colour and print made for a graceful show that used oriental and historic themes to convey intricate beauty and design.
by Emma Walsh
Images courtesy Style.com