Alessandro Michele’s latest collection for Valentino, titled “Interference,” showcased his unique vision and eclectic tastes. The show in Rome closed with a stunning full-length red dress, a nod to the late founder of the house. Michele described red as a challenging color to handle but one that exudes a powerful presence.
As Michele approaches his two-year mark at Valentino, he sees himself as an “interference” in the brand’s established aesthetic. He aims to disrupt the perfection created by the house’s founder, Valentino Garavani, with his slightly off-kilter designs. The collection was named Interference to reflect the tension and complexity Michele wanted to convey.
The looks in the collection were a mix of high-1980s excess and modern sophistication. Bold shoulderlines, butterfly-shaped hardware, and bow-tied belts added drama to the pieces. Full-length furs, leather coats, pleated tunics, and lace-hemmed jeans were cinched with satin sash belts and accessorized with Rockstud pumps. The juxtaposition of textures and colors created a sense of visual excitement.
The menswear pieces also reflected Michele’s penchant for tension and duality. Double-breasted jackets featured unexpected drapery and pleating, adding a sense of movement and unpredictability. Full-legged trousers with mish-mashed pleating blurred the lines between intentional design and casual wear, highlighting Michele’s playful approach to fashion.
The collection as a whole celebrated order while embracing vulnerability, a theme that resonated throughout the show. Michele’s notes emphasized the balance between structure and chaos, drawing inspiration from the rich artistic and architectural history of Rome. By infusing glitches and running interference in his designs, Michele positioned Valentino as a brand that is both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking.
Overall, Alessandro Michele’s Interference collection for Valentino was a testament to his creative vision and ability to push boundaries. The show seamlessly integrated into the brand’s legacy while carving out a new path for the future of Valentino.
