Valentino's new leading lady

Last season was Valentino's final collection after 45 years and he has now passed his crown on to former Gucci creative director Alessandra Facchinetti. After Valentino's final show which seemed to many like the end of an era, the pressure was on for Alessandra as she had big shoes to fill. Fashion critics were uneasy about this young designer taking Valentino's place, but I thought differently. She did very well at Gucci and there was no doubt in my mind that if she could master Gucci, she could branch out and attempt Valentino. The collection she created was typically Valentino, fresh and beautiful. Before the show, she told the media that she has never been so nervous before to show a collection. At least now she can sit back and relax because the fashion world has just accepted her with open arms after this remarkable show.

Click here for the Wall Street Journal review of the show

Farewell Valentino

Valentino Garavani walked down his last haute couture runway this week. The runway show in Paris was a spectacular event with a star studded audience. Valentino’s fashion house is one of the most famous in the world and even though he is retiring, the Valentino name and empire will still exist with a new design team. As the fashion legend took his final walk to a standing ovation, the audience was full of tears, but Valentino kept his cool. After 45 years of making fashion history, Valentino will greatly be missed, but I have a feeling this will not be the last we see of him and glamorous creations.

Photos: Marcio Madeira/VOGUE.COM