Dresses of Handiwork That Melt into the Skin――Valentino

This is the second installment of the Spring/Summer 2016 Haute Couture Collection. Valentino's Creative Directors, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, continue to expand their vision, inspired by a journey that begins with Rome and encompasses men's, women's, and couture collections. Following last season's couture in Rome and prêt-à-porter inspired by Africa, this season they delve into the world of Mariano Fortuny, an artist born in 19th-century Spain.


Nude dresses based on the "body" express the free spirit of women. Accordion-pleated dresses where leaves and small flowers seem to float on bare skin. Fading pleats melt into the skin. Embroidery and lace layered over silk chiffon also resemble tattoos. Nightgowns and kimono coats draw inspiration from Fortuny's fascination with the Orient. Flowing A-line long dresses, while incorporating intricate handiwork, retain a primitive essence and are finished with delicate detail. Curved headpieces and body-wrapping jewelry add accents to the ensembles.

Sculptural Cubist Dresses That Stand Out――Viktor & Rolf

Viktor & Rolf, who declared themselves fashion artists three seasons ago, have expressed Cubism through sculptural garments. The material is white pique. The foundation is, after all, wearable art. Simple white polo shirt dresses gain volume through layered, curved fabric, emerging like sculptures. The garments, which cover the face, transform the models into statues. Handiwork is applied throughout, with embellishments that appear like stains or scratches. This collection represents the expanding flow of modern couture. A limited capsule collection of three styles will be available for pre-order.