Take a Bow

Giambattista Valli's spring 2024 couture collection was a frothy rose garden, with occasional jet-black accents that added majesty to the dreamy spectacle. His inspiration was fresh flowers and evolved as almost a reverie, a very Italian one, on the variety of ways blossoms can embellish the classic feminine corset shape. What most drew my eye, however, through the reams of taffeta, which I do cherish, were the slicked back hairstyles embellished by what has become the signature Valli bow, this time almost always in black, as styled by Italian hairstylist Pier Paolo Lai. This classic look of pulled back hair, simply embellished, paired with eye-catching dress reminded me of the old-school look my mother and other stylish women from her generation embodied: they dressed perfectly without trying to. I see this vibe captured with nostalgia and whimsy in the art of Sophie Clima, which, like Valli's collection, also bounds with flowers and nature, albeit via printed fabrics as opposed to tulle draping. Miss Clima's art, which ranges from original and commissioned paintings to digital downloads, is available on Etsy and other artist sites, and I also hope she reactivates her website soon. Her Chinoiseries and Fashion Illustrations are my favorites, with absurdly affordable prices, but that may change as her fanbase expands!

(photos courtesy of giambattistavalli.com, vogue.com, and etsy.com)