Valentino’s recent collections have been etched deep into the history of New York. A source of inspiration for many, New York City defines the American metropolitan with a contrast of cultures, modern and vintage, European elements with wholly American ones all tied together. Pierpaolo Piccioli, Valentino’s creative director, presented his solo debut a few months prior to his resort collection, also in New York, stating Ellis Island and immigration as his inspirations. Since, Piccioli has further embraced the variety the city offers returning to New York to show Valentino’s Resort 2018 collection.

Cascading silhouettes in flowy fabrics gave the urban inspired looks a romantic streak. In their essence a tribute to downtown New York, reviving styles from the 70s and 80’s, Piccioli took from American hip hop and sewed it together with the delicate appeal of the Italian brand. Piccioli’s cited Baz Luhrmann’s The Get Down as the catalyst for his collection. Marc Jacob’s FW17 collection was also a homage to the late New York Hip Hop scene. Silk tracksuits in vibrant colors, deconstructed denim shirts with distressed jeans, star studded, cut out dresses in dusty pinks and periwinkle hues. The iconic designer Zhandra Rhodes prints collaboration with Valentino was seen again in the resort collection. With contrasting patterns on dresses and bomber jackets giving a unique twist to staple items.

Haute athleisure has seen a recent emergence, with many designers placing elements of sporty, streetwear into traditional haute couture. With this collection Valentino has merged the many parts of everyday life together, breaking into the demands of a modern world. Ethnic influences, hip hop culture and a fusion of the classic Valentino with sport was the mould of this collection; a new definitionfor the label but also a statement to the future of fashion. Pierpaolo Piccioli talked about diversity and stated the importance of “finding the harmony in difference.” something the designers first two collections have done. Furthering the role of ethnic inspiration and culture into fashion, Piccioli, is taking a much needed stance to the turbulent divisions of the world we live in.

By @hibaxali
Photo Credit @vogue/@valentino