SINCE the brand was founded in 2005, Giambattista Valli has become renowned for its gorgeous couture gowns, and for PFW, Valli brought his lyrical, romantic style to the runway with the SS20 ready-to-wear collection. Feminine detailing, bows and ruffles, adorned both mini and maxi dresses, and florals were a consistent motif throughout the collection.
The looks began fairly simplistically (for Valli), with soft shades and gentle silhouettes. Unusually, for the dress aficionado, tailored suits made an appearance, demonstrating that the house has more to offer for people who prefer formal pieces. Platform sandals and satin pumps adorned the feet of models, rounding off a distinguished look.
As the show progressed, ensembles became increasingly more flamboyant with ruffles layered together to create a voluminous skirt. Pussybow’s were tied at the neck, forming a silhouette which became fuller and more billowing towards the bottom. Dresses were bud and blossom coloured – one look in green was like a grown-up envisioning of Tinkerbell’s dress, and another, decorated in delicate pink florals, would make anyone feel like a princess.
Short or tied back hair drew attention to floral headpieces, which were worn above the brow, framing the eyes. Natural beauty looks were harmonised with romantic ensembles, creating a thoroughly dreamlike collection.
by Alicia Pountney