Valentino L’École highlights the body and revels in freedom as FKA Twigs puts on a unique performance of music, movement and passion.
The body, representative of freedom, specifically the female body, and the concept of emancipation, were the inspiration behind the Spring/Summer 2024 women’s collection from Valentino (Instagram), designed by Pierpaolo Piccioli and presented at Paris Fashion Week.
L’École is a collection that transcends societal expectations and the male gaze. Here, fashion bows to the woman liberated, celebrating her innate strength and beauty Pierpaolo Piccioli, the creative genius behind this ode to self-expression, delves into the concept of nakedness, not as a mere display of sensuality but as a profound exploration of the self. It’s a declaration of the liberation that lies at the heart of creation, a transformation in our perception of this most natural state. Valentino beckons us to bare our skin, symbolizing self-awareness and autonomy, an assertion of power and resilience.
With the iconic Valentino Garavani VLogo Moon bag in hand, models grace the runway, embodying the spirit of Valentino — authenticity and classic elegance, reimagined for today.
The collection is an eclectic symphony of modern silhouettes, infused with romantic touches. Delicate floral cut-outs and baroque ornamentation seamlessly merge skin and fabric, celebrating the union of body and fashion.
From tailored white suits exuding feminine strength to intricate floral dresses that embrace natural formations, the range speaks to diverse occasions. Draping purple dresses and sheer black evening gowns paint a picture of timeless sophistication. Green capes add a dash of drama, while classic blue denim jeans offer everyday chic.
Valentino understands its audience’s desires — a summer day top, a utilitarian tan two-piece for the office, and a ’60s-inspired black mini dress for the night. And for those grand celebrations, stunning red gowns fit for the most decadent of occasions await.
Yet, the true star of this runway spectacle is the Valentino Garavani VLogo Moon bag, a celestial addition that captivated Paris Fashion Week with its crescent silhouette, making a stellar statement.
In “L’École,” Valentino invites us to embrace our essence, our strength, and our beauty, celebrating the liberation that comes with self-expression. It’s a collection that redefines fashion as a canvas for individuality, empowering women to shine in all their glory.
^FKA Twigs
Alongside all of this was an incredible performance by multidisciplinary artist FKA Twigs (Instagram) and her body of five dancers. All moved as one, fusing music and dance with movment and Twigs’ own physicality. The stunning live performance explored and honoured the body and femininity like few displays we’ve ever seen.
“Over the past few months, Pierpaolo and I have written and spoken about the desire for raw art and the lack of expression in our individual industries. During one conversation, Pierpaolo and I discussed the inspiration for this collection and how it derived from a raw femininity. We talked about how a woman, with no makeup and her hair down, can exist in the world as a power and a force. He told me that I was that woman,” said FKA Twigs in an exclusive interview with This Is Yung.
“At that moment, I was reminded of the purest and most favoured version of myself: when I am in practice and focused on the things that matter to me the most. In a brave moment of liberation, I suggested that I should present works from my forthcoming album in the making with my main collaborator Koreless,” she said.
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