News flash: it turns out that the rumors are true! Alessandro Michele’s selection as Valentino has confirmed the new Creative Director, with the Roman designer replacing Pierpaolo Piccioli, whose former right hand, Salvador Desarno, is now at Gucci, where, of course, Michele used to preside. Talk about a game of Italian musical chairs.
Michele released a statement in which he acknowledged his great honor upon joining Maison Valentino and emphasized his sense of duty and gratitude for the couture brand known for its grace, beauty, and elegance. As Michele considers Valentino’s cultural and symbolic legacy, he honors the company’s founders, Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti, stating, “These references always represented an essential source of inspiration for me, and I’m going to praise such influence through my interpretation and creative vision.”
From Gucci to Valentino
The fashion industry has undergone a substantial change with Michele’s hiring, especially in light of his exit from Gucci more than a year ago following an incredible 20-year run. April 2nd is his first day at Valentino. His Spring/Summer 2025 debut collection will make its Paris Fashion Week presentation in September.
The spectators and critics not only want to see how he delivers the genuine feel of Valentino while still making it unique, which is a challenge in itself, but they also want to perceive how it translates in stores and with the consumer, a big success he accomplished with Gucci years back. By incorporating his distinct aesthetic into the brand’s DNA, Michele hopes to pay tribute to Valentino’s legacy through his imaginative vision and interpretation.
While we eagerly anticipate the unveiling of Michele’s first collection, it’s important to remember the words that Valentino Garavani himself said to Piccioli, praising his honesty in maintaining the spirit of the brand’s values while avoiding ego-driven trends, “Thank you for your friendship, respect, and support. You’re the only designer I know who hasn’t tried to distort the codes of a major brand by imposing new ones and the megalomania of a ridiculous ego.” Michelle needs to be true to the brand’s objective of presenting the designs with integrity and coherence in this age of consumerism, where fashion trends are at the forefront.
Stay tuned as we await this fashion debut, and rest assured, we’ll have the recap for you here at Istituto Marangoni Miami, capturing the essence of Michele’s renaissance at Valentino.
Date: April 8, 2024
Written by: Alessandra Belloso, Master’s Program Alumna
