To the divine world of Valentino now and the show notes, those sometimes useful… pieces of paper that explain a designer’s thoughts behind his show, left on our seats: this was an “encounter of the street with couture”. On the catwalk, this meant elaborate “lady prints” more at home on a Paris catwalk full of occasion-wear for ladies that do lots of lunch but scarcely eat. But super! Super luxe-y and slightly mad. They will speak directly to the logo-conscious (fluoro branding everywhere) millennials and the up-and-coming younger Gen Z. Both of whom subscribe to a “pick up and socialise” wardrobe of clothes and accessories, which bring plenty of bang to Instagram. More of this streetwear and couture clash with feathered bucket hats and velvet peak caps; silk trackies and camo short combos. A black ciré hoody grabbed the best in show trophy. So what does it all mean? Well, great shopping. If Valentino is anything it’s a modern online phenomenon: retailers talk of “bang for your buck” and “standout” from the bold prints and “modern menswear staples”. Spring ‘19 will be another “add to cart” season for Valentino and designer Pierpaolo Piccioli then.
