Valentino: Themes and Variations

Valentino has been synonymous with high fashion for nearly half a century. Recognized as one of only two couture houses outside of Paris by the French government, the brand is based in Rome. Valentino's exquisite designs are coveted and worn by young Hollywood and high society worldwide.

To commemorate Valentino's last couture collection, presented in Paris in the spring of 2008, this landmark book celebrates forty-five years of his remarkable career. Published in association with a prestigious exhibition at the Museé des Arts Decoratifs's famed costume department in Paris, this volume focuses on Valentino's haute couture creations. It highlights the most important and iconic pieces from his five decades in fashion, exploring recurring themes in his work, such as variations on the ideas of volume, line, and texture, as well as motifs like geometry, pleats, and flowers, through new photography, sketches, fabric samples, and commentary by Valentino himself.

Additionally, unprecedented photography by François Halard of Valentino's last fittings and backstage of his runway show reveals the designer's private world for the first time. "Valentino On Valentino," a chapter of first-person accounts of the designs of these iconic dresses, along with Valentino's own commentary on his fashion, make this publication unique in the study of Valentino as a cultural and artistic icon.

The book delves into Valentino's remarkable career, tracing his rise to become one of the most influential and respected figures in the fashion industry. Readers are given an intimate glimpse into the designer's creative process and the evolution of his distinctive style, which has captivated the world for generations.

Through stunning visuals and insightful commentary, the volume showcases Valentino's mastery of traditional couture techniques and his ability to reinterpret and reinvent them, always maintaining a timeless elegance and sophistication. The book serves as a testament to Valentino's enduring legacy and his profound impact on the world of fashion.

As a comprehensive and visually captivating exploration of Valentino's remarkable career, this publication is a must-have for fashion enthusiasts, designers, and anyone interested in the artistry and craftsmanship that have defined Valentino's iconic brand for nearly half a century.

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