Designer of 2025 – Valentino by Alessandro Michele

I’ll admit, this one surprised me too. But looking back over 2025, it becomes clear that Alessandro Michele’s Valentino is far more expansive than the embellished aesthetic that will always spring to mind. This was a year defined by contrast, and character.

The house’s ambassadors were announced. Colman Domingo first, followed by Michele muse Dakota Johnson — two very different style personalities united by a label, but with contrasting individuality.

Some of the most memorable Valentino moments, however, came from Natasha Lyonne and Parker Posey, women who fully embrace Michele’s love of excess and wore it with total confidence.

Then came the softer turn. The Resort 2026 collection revealed a romantic, more delicate side of Valentino, expanding the house’s maximalist narrative.

Menswear also thrived. Colman Domingo and Drew Starkey delivered standout moments, while Andrew Garfield repeatedly returned to Valentino as his label of choice.

And while couture appearances were few, they were indelible.

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