My Sweet Valentino

Valentino’s elegant spring/summer collection wows with everything from space-inspired coats to athletic vibes to classic rockstud embellishments on bags 70

covet Valentino’s 2018 spring/summer collection by Pierpaolo Piccioli thanks to its mix of athleticism and elegance, constructed by the clever layering of sequins, velvet, plastic fabrics, and, of course, rockstuds.

Pierpaolo drew inspiration for the spring/ summer collection from space exploration, giving way to supple coats of clear plastic embellished with sequins and coats with zippockets as external lapels.

Athleticism is a recurring element as well, owing to racerback-style lapels on the chest of tops and dresses. The lapels—some of

them detachable—made of velvet or intricate beadwork, lend a sporty silhouette to the characteristically elegant dresses. One dress features a black lapel underneath a brown sleeveless top onto which an eye-catching billowy pink gown has been stitched. The athletic-yet-sweet vibe extends to the resort collection as well. Here, Valentino mixes lace and typical accents on sports clothes. Skirts and dresses are secured with drawstrings and accentuated with lace chevrons, while tracksuits and varsity jackets are kept feminine through lace and bead embellishments. One varsity-inspired jacket, for example, is emblazoned with red-beaded, Valentino logo. The collection gets whimsical, too, with prints and patches shaped like red lips and lipsticks. The daring red lips can be found on everything from coats to handbags. One blackleather cross-body bag is fully embellished with red lipsticks made of beads, making it a fun and bold addition to the collection. And who doesn’t love a Valentino bag? The brand’s 2018 collection offers a fresh line-up of the iconic rock-stud bags. Under the resort line, the Free Rockstud collection includes duffle and waist bags in bright green, pink, and red embellished with white studs. Heels come in the same bold colours, this time with socks of a matching shade. But for those loyal to the classic gold-coloured rockstud worry not, for Valentino has prepared a new collection in shades of dusty rose, evening blue, and olive green. Whatever the hue, Valentino’s rockstuds remain a strong addition to any outfit.