Valentino: Chic and Classy but a Little too Calm
Written by: Godfrey Deeny
Photos by: Gruber-FWD
Paris, Jan 22, 2002/ FWD/ --- There was plenty of class at the presentation of the Valentino
Spring/Summer 2002 haute couture collection on Sunday night, both on the runway and front row.
Gwyneth Paltrow made it to her fourth show in 24 hours, taking her seat between Sir Val’s
partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, and Sheryl Crow.
And not too far away sat two of the most stylish lady designers ever, Diane von Furstenberg
and Carolina Herrera.
Valentino spoke of an "aura of innocence" permeating the collection, and the show did open
with impeccable daywear that was virtuous and pure.
High-waisted empire pantsuits in white wool and jumpsuits in red wool were both distinguished
and distinctive.
The front row ladies - and Valentino is one couturier with plenty of real, rather than
"virtual," clients - were happily scribbling down notes for future orders when a PETA activist
jumped onto the catwalk - the third show interrupted by the anti-fur movement this season.
The primarily French audience, many of them clad in the offending fur, were evidently fed up
with PETA and hissed and jeered as the bearded protestor was hustled unceremoniously off
the runway.
This, unfortunately, turned out to be the most exciting moment in the show.
Val did send out some beautiful, almost baroque white tops with embroidered roses, and a silk
crepe dress with a tiny jacket worn by Carmen Kass was the epitome of good taste.
Phillip Treacy contributed some wonderful hats, in particular the show opener with Valentino’s
name carved out in feathers.
But, overall, the collection lacked fireworks and erred overly on the side of refinement.
Most disturbingly of all, Gywneth and Sheryl did not take perhaps a single note.
Valentino
Valentino
|
