Valentino Spring/Summer 2009 Haute Couture

So There it is, Alessandra Facchinetti , former creative director for the house of Valentino left apparently due to clashes over design direction and production costs. Her design's price range increased, and with the increase, came less buyers. The designer has previously worked for Gucci and Moncler, her departure was confirmed by the company who cited "a misaligned vision with the company."

She will be replaced by Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli who have been designing accessories alongside founder Valentino Garavani for ten years. ( curious isn't it?) The duo will become creative directors for all categories of the design house.

Their first collection after receiving the title as creative directors was of course, the S/S 2009 Haute Couture collection of today.

The first two things I instantly noticed was that Alessandra's signature heavy embellishments & embroidery were not too present. Embellishment was used in this collection, but it wasn't as present. And was in a lighter, more delicate fashion. Also I see a lot more of the house's signature red pieces. Alessandra when she was designer, did not incorporate a lot of red into her collections. This collection had some very rich colors, like the amazing Plum dress Tanya wore. I also loved the use of feathers in some dresses. It's clear that Maria & Pier captured much more of the Valentino essence then Alessandra did, yet still kept the collection very much their own. I'm sure they're there to stay. Don't get me wrong, I did like Alessandra Facchinetti's work, and she definitely delivers, I just think she wasn't right for the house of Valentino.

Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri

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