Good afternoon and happy Friday.
As we all know, we're living in cuckoo times. I read the news today, oh boy times. It was the worst of times, it was the worst of times times. So it goes without saying we all need a distraction. And for me, that much needed break from reality into sheer fashion fantasy was the Valentino couture show this week in Paris. OMFG. Couture as religion. Magical.
Of course, Kaia Gerber's outsized hair almost broke the internet. But there was so much more going on. The clothes were everything that my referential wheelhouse could imagine. There were 60s moments. 70s moments. Texan moments. Dandy moments. Almost every moment I'd ever want to have.
Vogue's review of the show included the term "magic" over and over again, but also the following nods to the overwhelming amount of influences on this unforgettable collection. When quoting the designer: "
"Couture involves a deeper and more intimate perspective, to go further into your own vision of beauty.”
The review then goes on to say "this season his vision involves a mash-up of Greek mythology, 17th- and 18th-century painting, the films of Pasolini and the photographs of Deborah Turbeville, medieval armor, and Ziggy Stardust. Sounds mad yet looks magnificent, especially in capes appliquéd, embroidered, and even perhaps quilted with gods and goddesses. An evening dress composed of multiple brocades, rhinestones, sequins, pearls, and vivid textural embroideries is described by Piccioli as “Renaissance meets Versailles meets ’60s whatever” but the truth is far more fabulous: It’s not a set of references, but a dream of a dress, which is what couture should be, frankly".
Truly you just need to see for yourself. I fell in love a million times on this runway. I almost couldn't believe how beautiful, and apparently Mr. Valentino got teary eyed as the audience leapt to its feet. Well done to the next generation at Valentino. Thank you for letting this gal, and the rest of us, dream a little bigger. Thanks for reminding me to shoot for the stars. Link to your dreams here. That green cape alone has me rethinking my entire life.
Cause that's what's up this haute Friday in the 212. Yours, in middle fingers to practicality and beautiful, beautiful clothes. XO