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Valentino is back in the headlines today with the announcement of Alessandro Michele as the next creative director. And while many are already speculating what his vision for the maison will look like—lots of brocade suiting, perhaps?—we’re still dreaming of all of the modern marvels Pierpaolo Piccioli created during his time at Valentino.
Piccioli’s work at the house started in 1999 as an accessory designer, and on March 22nd it was announced that he would officially exit from his role as creative director. Perhaps, he tried to warn us of the news with his last collection, which featured only black looks—symbolic of a very chic funeral.
There’s no need to shed tears, though. In Piccioli’s own words shared in a statement, “Not all stories have a beginning or an end, some live a kind of eternal present that shines so bright that it won’t produce any shadows.” Instead of mourning his departure, many of us are thinking of ways to celebrate his era-defining work by adding a piece of history to our closets.
Ahead, discover 9 magnificent Valentino items we have our eyes on as we say farewell to Piccioli’s unforgettable chapter.
The Dazzling Denim Shirt
“It’s only in my dreams that I’m a Valentino shopper (the prices being much too expensive for me), but I’ll choose something practical anyway: this denim button-down with sequined pockets, an everyday riff on the sublime hand-beaded ‘jeans’ Kaia Gerber wore in Pierpaolo Piccioli’s fall 2023 haute couture collection for the maison.” —Nicole Phelps, global director of Vogue Runway
The Elegant Evening Dresses
“Sadly I won’t be buying Valentino any time soon as it’s not my typical price range but if I were, I would go to The RealReal or The Outnet and scoop up one of their great evening dresses. No one makes a wedding guest dress quite like Valentino and either of these two would be stars of the show.” —Chloe Malle, editor of Vogue.com
The Elevated Essentials
“The elevated sense of ease Piccioli demonstrated in Valentino’s resort 2024 collection still lives rent free in my mind. If I had an unlimited budget, I’d anchor my wardrobe with those perfectly relaxed straight-leg jeans and the tailored blazer from look 8.”—Alexis Bennett, senior fashion writer
The Party Starter
“I could never afford this dress but that won’t stop me from lusting after it from afar. From the nipped waist to the oversized roses at the bust, this is a flirty and fun piece that livens up the classic LBD. I already know that you wouldn’t be able to keep me off the dance floor in that dress—you’ve got to give something that fabulous its moment in the sun!” —Hannah Jackson, fashion writer
The Sharp Blazer
“Playing favorites with Pierpaolo Piccioli collections is practically impossible. From his legendary pink pieces to the timeless moments like this tweed blazer, Piccioli designed for the modern Valentino woman in every way.” —Eliseé Browchuk, experiences production and marketing manager
The Sculptural Top
“An only-my-dreams top I would style exactly as seen on the spring/summer 2024 runway—with baggy light-wash denim and chic slides.” —Talia Abbas, senior shopping editor
The Blooming Heels
“I often find myself attached to his hopelessly romantic accessories and these rose petal pumps are a true treasure.” —Elisée Browchuk, experiences production and marketing manager