Fall Couture 2013: Valentino

The designers behind the Valentino Couture collection, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli, look back to the idea of wunderkammer, the German word for 'wonder-room' or more commonly, cabinet of curiosities. The couturiers wished to reflect the uniqueness and individuality of each item in a cabinet of curiosities within their couture designs. Rich cashmere, tweed and embroidered silk are used in many of the designs, providing exquisite details for those in the front row. Some looks seemed simple initially, yet were embroidered with silk baroque detailing on the back of the garment. The muted tones were offset by Valentino's signature red, used to delicately embroider coral shapes onto some garments. A floor length red silk evening gown also graced the catwalk. Each piece is carefully constructed in simple shapes, combined with opulent detailing, captivating a curiosity in every onlooker.