Valentino: The End of an Era

As we predicted (along with everyone else in the industry) Valentino will be resigning. The designer, whose label just celebrated its 45th anniversary, will depart with his business partner (Giancarlo Giammetti), after showing one more ready-to-wear and couture show. The 75 year-old designer recently gave the elite a roman holiday as guests enjoyed a 3 day celebration, while paying homage to the designer.

“My future will be filled with new interests and challenges. Some may be linked to fashion, as I have a strong desire to create and support institutions to promote the study of fashion design, and to preserve the history of the art of fashion. It will be a marvellous continuation of this amazing adventure that I had the privilege to have. Even as a young boy, my passion was to design, and I have been very lucky to be able to do what I have loved all my life.” (Vogue.co.uk)

And who will replace him, you ask?
Much is being said on this topic but we put our money on Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler. They’re talented, young and this would make perfect sense as to why the Valentino Fashion Group just purchased nearly half of the duo’s business. Though based on skill alone and design style, Stefano Pilati would also be a good contender. So we take that back… We put our money on Pilati.

A video from Valentino’s Spring 2007 Haute Couture Show…

Yes this is the end of an enjoyable era.