Alessandro Michele’s debut for Valentino is a stunning harmony of fashion, art, and philosophy

The collection goes beyond fashion, exploring the idea of beauty as a way to cope with the fleeting nature of life.

From the moment the audience entered “Pavillon des Folies,” they were drawn into Michele’s world—a space where beauty meets fragility. The set, a cracked glass floor designed by Alfredo Pirri, wasn’t just a backdrop, instead, it became a metaphor for how fragile life is.

Michele’s message was clear: “We tiptoe on mirrors that shatter under our weight,” reminding us that every step we take leaves an impact.

The show began with a monochromatic black dress paired with red tights in Valentino’s signature “Rosso Valentino” shade. His runway used royal blues, forest greens, mustard yellows and lilacs for a maximalist story.

As a way of dealing with time, Michele explored beauty beyond fashion. Models were wearing shiny fabrics, ruffles and fine details. Michele thinks beauty can heal us. He thinks beauty need not have a function. It just brings joy and peace to a chaotic world.

Drawing inspiration from thinkers like Théophile Gautier and Michel de Montaigne, Michele emphasized that beauty’s power lies in its ability to exist without reason.

The collection had dramatic looks: Drop waist dresses, embroidered coats and wide brimmed hats brought different eras together. Every outfit, from Regency gowns to 1960s-style glasses, said something nostalgic yet fresh about Michele—someone who knows how to reinvent fashion.

Beyond the eye appeal, Michele’s collection had texture and feel—lace gloves and embroideries. The collection’s excess: feathers, layered lace and statement accessories. It was about enjoying every sensation associated with fashion: every stitch and texture.

And as you would expect, the front row was full of Michele friends: Harry Styles, Andrew Garfield, Jared Leto, Florence Welch, Salma Hayek and Elton John.

At his Valentino debut, Michele asked us to look beyond the runways and to remember the power of beauty, color and expression.

Watch Maison Valentino S/S25 show below: