Giambattista Valli Spring 2012 Couture

While this is only Giambattista Valli's second couture collection, he has already proven himself from the very first show.  Some people commented on Style.com that Valli should go to Dior, and after thinking about it, I can't say I would disagree.  If this were an audition for Dior, Valli would well make it into consideration.  But I am open to whatever Dior wishes to do.  At this point, we can only sit and wait to see what happens.

Anyway, back to Valli.  Throughout the show, it was restraint with increasing bits of fluff.  Valli started off with a strict, polished cape with appliqué flowers cascading down the shoulders.  From there, the flowers spread, puffs of fabric appeared on the shoulders, and lace enveloped the body.

Froth continued to take over as the looks began to get fancier with increasing embellishment and the silhouette loosened up with sheer A-line skirts.  However, it still wasn't without a stiff, crocodile pencil skirt and peplum top.

Then came flowy, floor-length dresses which took all the previous elements and morphed them into glamour with a silver bow belt, or a crumpled metal necklace.

After just two ball gowns, Valli wrapped it all up by mirroring the first look, but it was a much softer rendition.  The fluff had taken over, and all restraint was gone.  The look was covered in embroidery and done in a deeper colour. 

In a time when "couture is a dying art" gets thrown around more and more (oh how it pains me to hear that phrase...), it's nice to have a designer take on couture rather than step out of it.

Watch the entire show here.

Image Source: Style.com