Yesterday in Paris, Valentino and Viktor & Rolf left our jaws on the floor with their Spring/Summer 2019 Haute Couture collections.
Viktor & Rolf, never one to disappoint, delivered fashion statements (literally) full of volume—using 8 kilometers of tulle, no less. Over-the-top and A-line to the extreme, ruffled dresses flounced down a dramatic runway bearing bold phrases. A couture interpretation of the graphic tee, texts read, “No photos please,” “I’m not shy I just don’t like you,” “I am my own muse,” and perhaps our favorite, “Less is more,” all constructed from layers of laser cut tulle. The juxtaposition ethereal silhouettes paired with tongue-in-cheek slogans made for a totally surreal season.
The Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild, boasting ornate woodwork, painted ceilings, and colorful springtime florals (despite the snow in Paris this week) provided a fitting backdrop for Valentino’s incredible Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2019 collection. We were wowed by the looks Pierpaolo Piccioli sent down the runway, as well as legendary Naomi Campbell’s closing of the show—marking her first time modeling for the label in 14 years. The vibrant, voluminous collection was full of color, shape, and pattern. Florals appeared in print, sculptural details (that sometimes wrapped around the head), appliques, and even on embroidered tights. Faces were transformed with extreme feathered lashes and painted petals. “I have asked the seamstresses of the atelier to personally name each dress with a name of a flower or with the emotion brought by the flower itself,” said Piccioli. The designer also dazzled audiences this week by including 42 black models in the show. It was a much needed message of inclusion that, just like the fantasy fulfilling collection, could and should
