There are days when all you want is to lounge around and feel like Lana Del Rey in her “Honeymoon” era. Dreamy, otherworldly, a bit of a baddie. Alessandro Michele certainly had one of those moments while working on Valentino‘s resort 2026 collection, photographed on literal sleeping beauties. FYI: his vintage-inspired dresses not only look great on red carpets and concert stages, but also in bed.

The new collection sees Michele re-looking the codes straight out of Valentino Garavani’s archive: look 1 offered a ruched Valentino-red minidress, its bodice pleats gathered in frontal cutouts just as Garavani used to do. And the bow, another Garavani favorite, dotted everything from hems to heeled mules like a frivolous punctuation mark. On the decorative side, gobelin-like tapestries were crafted into boxy waistcoats trimmed with feathers and fringed micro shorts. Elsewhere Michele’s urge for embellishment was interrupted by slender and elegant evening gowns in plain soft pastels or classic black. Meanwhile, the menswear took cues from the style of Parisian students who took part in 1968 protests, a theme Michele often gravitates towards in his work. A child of the bourgeoisie, out in the streets, looking for love.

P.s. The Valentino clients should really take a look at Alessandro’s accessories, especially bags: he knows how to turn a heirloom from grandmother’s closet into a modern-day treasure. I’m absolutely obsessed with all the heavily-embroidered, fringed satchels.

ED’s SELECTION:

Valentino Garavani Nellcôte Fringed Embellished Suede Tote Bag

Valentino Garavani Fleur Lumineuse Necklace

Valentino Garavani Belted Ruffled Polka-dot Wool And Silk-blend Mini Dress

Valentino Garavani Tasseled Wool And Cashmere-blend Jacket

Valentino Garavani Bowow 45 Crystal-embellished Metallic Suede-trimmed Moiré Pumps

Valentino Garavani Panier De Fleurs Snake-effect Leather-trimmed Embroidered Raffia Tote

Collage by Edward Kanarecki.
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