The September Spring fashion weeks always find themselves in the middle of an intense schedule, competing for attention with major events like the Venice Film Festival, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), San Sebastián Film Festival, the VMAs, and the Emmys. As a result, I often push front-row commentary to the bottom of my to-do list, and then it’s too late and feels too stale to feature.
But when I saw Valentino’s front row this time, I knew I had to share—especially with Alessandro Michele now at the creative helm, carrying over muses like Jared Leto and Harry Styles from his Gucci days.
A Muted Yet Intriguing Look
Harry Styles, a long-time devotee of Alessandro Michele, made his front-row appearance in an orange Valentino sweater paired with brown trousers. Now, you might be wondering, “Where’s the flair (or flares)?”—a question perfectly valid for someone as flamboyant as Harry. But look a little closer, and you’ll see a ruffled collar and cuffs peeking through, giving hints of the flair he’s known for. Perhaps this muted outing is just the calm before the storm—knowing Harry, there’s no doubt a statement look will come soon.
Embracing Theatrics with Flair
I know Jared Leto isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but you can’t deny how well he fits as Alessandro Michele’s muse. Jared shares Michele’s love for long hair, beards, shiny embellishments, and an undeniable flair for theatrics. In this front row, Jared took his look a notch above what we saw from him at the BoF 500 gala. His combination of opulent textures and a certain rock star sensibility could even be described as quintessentially Michele, and it’s clear why the designer wants Jared as part of his Valentino narrative.
Alessandro’s Boho Muse
Make that three muses for Alessandro Michele in his move to Valentino, as Florence Welch joins the crew, and it’s a match made in bohemian heaven. Florence’s fringe-embellished Valentino Resort 2025 gown fits her ethereal, vintage-inspired style perfectly. Michele’s penchant for romantic, boho-glam pieces feels tailor-made for Florence, making this pairing a natural continuation of her fashion journey. It’s as if the fringed dress she wore was crafted with her in mind, embodying everything that makes her style stand out.
Turban Triumph
Karen Elson managed to sell me on the Valentino Resort 2025 turban, especially paired with her purple and gold jacquard dress. At first glance, this look shouldn’t work—the heavy patterning of the dress and the added drama of the resin necklace, multi-colour sandals and turban are a lot. But somehow, on Karen, it all clicks. It feels right for the perpetual time period Alessandro Michele seems to evoke—a moment when luxury, individuality, and unapologetic style dominated.
A Miss in the Turban Trend
I’m starting to think that turbans just aren’t Hari Nef’s thing. While Karen Elson pulled it off, Hari’s turban looked forced – much like it did at the BoF 500 gala – and the “granny chic” styling didn’t do her any favours. The faux fur trimmed tweed coat took her look into territory that felt outdated rather than vintage-chic. It worked for the iconic actress Pat Butcher, but Hari failed to pull it off. There are definitely better pieces in this collection that would have highlighted her playful style and charisma.
Vintage Charm with Untapped Potential
Andrew Garfield has always been a Valentino friend, and he certainly enjoys a vintage silhouette. This partnership could go in exciting directions under Alessandro Michele’s creative vision. Will Andrew dare step out of his comfort-zone? Only time will tell, but the prospect is certainly intriguing.
Effortless Cool
Colman Domingo remains one of the coolest men in the room, effortlessly pulling off a modern interpretation of a ’70s-inspired look. It’s classic, charismatic, and perfectly suited for Michele’s Valentino—a reminder that menswear can be vintage without being so on the nose.
The Odd Woman Out
Carla Bruni was the odd one out, staying true to her sleek style in a Valentino logo-embellished coat, the same one worn by Jared Leto at the BoF 500 gala. While her polished look might not align with Michele’s bohemian eclecticism, it stayed true to her signature aesthetic.
Vintage Charm Perfected
Sinéad Burke looked charming in her Valentino dress that was full of vintage flair, with a bib, bow, and ruffles. It captured Michele’s throwback tendencies while allowing Sinéad’s personality to shine.
The Obvious—but Fitting—Appearance
It was no surprise to see Elton John in Valentino’s front row. Alessandro Michele’s love for the glitz, glam, and flamboyance of past eras aligns perfectly with Elton’s enduring style. It’s a pairing that speaks of Michele’s vision being about more than just clothes—it’s about an attitude, a vibe, and a touch of rock ‘n’ roll magic.
Valentino’s front row this season was a spectacle—a diverse assembly of personalities unified under Alessandro Michele’s continued exploration of vintage, bohemian, and rock star aesthetics. Each brought something distinct to the table, showcasing the eclectic yet cohesive narrative Alessandro is weaving at Valentino.
The only question I have is, where was Florence Pugh?
Credit: Valentino / Getty Images / Vogue.com
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