Giambattista Valli’s Fall/Winter 2023 show was not without its challenges, as one model struggled to walk in wobbly heels, her foot and ankle spilling over to one side. Despite this unfortunate moment, the designer still managed to capture the hearts of those in attendance, including celebrities like Ciara and Fan Bing Bing.
Valli was inspired by Joséphine de Beauharnais Bonaparte, the first wife of Emperor Napoleon I, and her independence and cultural exchange. This translated into a collection that encouraged the freedom to wear whatever one desires, as long as it is loud and eye-catching. From black metallic tweed jumpsuits to pink feather-trimmed white jeans, the collection offered a range of styles for women.
There were also chiffon dresses with billowing hems in candy red and pink, jacquard minis with tulle trains, and an embroidered Empire gown that Joséphine herself might have worn. The show ended with a beautiful red ruffle finale gown that showcased a haute Spanish style.
Valli’s menswear offerings also made an appearance, after he received positive feedback from dropping a few pieces into a couture collection shown digitally during the COVID-19 pandemic. The designer added more menswear to his collection, including a sheer gold-sequined embroidered tunic and black jeans look that was a match to a slinky women’s dress and bodysuit. This his and hers interplay made for a cute and complementary show.
