by Grace Gordon

Valentino has always been more closely associated with the words “red carpet” than it has the words “versatile”, until now. In the hands of designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, this label has undergone a radical transformation. This gown-and-glam-centric design house has descended from the throne to bestow their blessing of functional, demure basics to the everyday woman.

Simple, modern pairings looked savvy and intelligent in light of Valentino’s past history. Light, balanced proportions made this the kind of collection that is easy to wear. The basic staples of this show were broad-checked coats, ruffled, flirty dresses, ribbed turtlenecks paired with tiered lace skirts, and a few simple lacey patchwork gowns. The colors and textures added richness and depth to the garments, and helped the clothing cross over from “simple and fresh” into “mature and sophisticated.” Chiuri and Piccioli hit their stride with the Valentino label last season, and progressed their new take even further in this one. If they keep it up, Valentino is going to stay as buzzworthy as the celebrities who wear the label.