Valentino

When Valentino Garavani retired as the founder and designer of Valentino in 2008, I was saddened. Valentino was the last of the original designers to hang it up so his announcement was painfully felt throughout the fashion world. His replacement was Alessandra Facchinetti who only lasted a year before she was asked to leave. Then Valentino hired Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli who had designed accessories at Valentino.
I purchased a dress here last fall for a NYC trip. The sales associate Ana was helpful, polite, and less obsequious than others I have run into.
After trying on a number of possibilities, I found the dress. It is modern, youthful, a bit edgy, and not what Valentino himself would have designed. However, I have gotten a number of looks and compliments so I think I picked a winner. (=
I am not really into the accessories so I can’t comment on them. I do know the huge flower on the side of the purse which has been copied like crazy this season was originally a Valentino design.
If you love vintage Valentino, you may have a hard time with the new designs. If you’re looking for a fresh take on a classic, it is worth a look!