Podcast Summary: The Run-Through with Vogue – Episode: "Alessandro Michele’s New Life at Valentino"
Episode Details
- Title: Alessandro Michele’s New Life at Valentino
- Release Date: January 28, 2025
- Host: Nicole Phelps, Director of Vogue Runway
Introduction
In this captivating episode of The Run-Through with Vogue, host Nicole Phelps engages in an insightful conversation with Alessandro Michele, the renowned Creative Director of Valentino. Having recently transitioned from a 21-year tenure at Gucci, Michele shares his experiences, creative processes, and visions for his role at Valentino. The discussion delves into the nuances of haute couture, the influence of Valentino's rich archives, and Alessandro’s personal inspirations that fuel his innovative designs.
Transition to Valentino
Nicole Phelps opens the dialogue by acknowledging the significance of Michele’s move to Valentino, especially with his haute couture debut approaching in two weeks. She inquires about his emotional state:
[01:20] Alessandro Michele: “I'm always like, excited and stressed and nervous and happy... it's completely different. The process, everything... I need to really, to touch it to see what will be in Paris.”
Michele expresses a blend of excitement and nervousness, highlighting the transformative nature of his new role and the distinct processes involved in haute couture compared to his previous experience with ready-to-wear collections.
Haute Couture vs. Ready-to-Wear
The conversation shifts to the intricate differences between haute couture and ready-to-wear, as documented in Rebecca Mead's upcoming Vogue feature. Michele emphasizes the foundational approach in couture:
[02:46] Alessandro Michele: “Being here in this house that is not really a brand, you really feel it that everything started from the haute couture... every single piece, every single thing that you do.”
He describes Valentino’s atelier as a "magical" space where each piece is crafted with meticulous dedication, akin to creating a living entity. Michele draws parallels to natural phenomena, likening the creation process to capturing the essence of a sunset—beautiful yet indescribable.
Creative Process and Inspiration
Delving deeper into his creative journey, Michele discusses how working at Valentino has unlocked new avenues of creativity:
[07:00] Alessandro Michele: “I was trying to understand what I have to change in the process because it's like that you need to spend a lot of time in just one piece... it's like a love affair.”
He elaborates on the intense, intimate relationship he forms with each couture piece, dedicating his entire focus to ensure each creation embodies a unique story and emotional depth.
Valentino Archives and Heritage
Michele pays homage to Valentino's illustrious past, reflecting on how the brand's archives influence his current designs:
[11:00] Alessandro Michele: “I'm trying to investigate that kind of beauty that Mr. Valentino built... I was processing everything inside my brain, body, and experience.”
He underscores the importance of respecting and reinterpreting Valentino's legacy, ensuring that his designs honor the brand's heritage while infusing his distinct creative vision.
Palazzo Mignanelli: A Creative Haven
Describing his new workspace, Michele highlights the blend of historical grandeur and creative inspiration that Palazzo Mignanelli offers:
[13:56] Alessandro Michele: “It's a magical and incredible building... Every single person is like a little wizard... When you walk inside the laboratory, it's like to be in another place.”
The palazzo serves not just as an office but as a sanctuary where art, history, and fashion converge, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and artistic expression.
Reflections on His Debut Show
Michele reminisces about his debut couture show for Valentino, reflecting on the emotions and experiences that defined the event:
[15:41] Alessandro Michele: “I was surrounded by love... Everything was so magical. I knew and I understood very clear that there is such a big connection between that job and me.”
He expresses gratitude for the support from colleagues, friends, and the Valentino family, describing the show as a poetic and novel experience that affirmed his connection to the brand.
Upcoming Couture Show: A Theatrical Vision
Discussing his plans for the upcoming couture show, Michele reveals his intent to blend theatrical elements with fashion:
[18:55] Alessandro Michele: “I'm working on a movie of a theater piece... I need to make you take a walk in my brain and in my space.”
He envisions the show as a cinematic journey, inviting the audience to experience his creative mind and the immersive worlds he aims to create through his designs.
Approach to Styling
Michele shares his unique approach to styling, highlighting his hands-on involvement in every aspect of the creative process:
[20:13] Alessandro Michele: “I like fabric. I like the research... I'm the one that works a lot with the hairdresser, with the makeup artist.”
He prefers to personally curate the styling elements, believing that true creative control allows for a more cohesive and authentic representation of his vision.
Real-World Impact of Valentino’s Designs
Reflecting on how Valentino’s creations manifest in everyday life, Michele expresses joy in seeing his designs embraced by individuals beyond the runway:
[23:39] Alessandro Michele: “I like that they take the pieces from the dream and put in the real life... Each dress holds a story and embodies different lives.”
He appreciates the organic way his designs integrate into various personal narratives, emphasizing the enduring relationship between fashion and its wearers.
Personal Inspirations and Life Beyond Fashion
Michele opens up about his personal life, sharing the simple joys and inspirations that fuel his creativity:
[26:14] Alessandro Michele: “Seeing my two nephews growing... They make me think about the future in such a positive way.”
He finds inspiration in everyday moments and the innocence of his nephews, which contrasts with the complexity of his professional endeavors.
Philosophical Perspectives on Fashion
Highlighting his philosophical outlook, Michele connects fashion to deeper existential themes:
[31:32] Alessandro Michele: “Clothes aren't only artifacts. Rather, they're doors, vessels, hallways that lead us to a different reality... You can live another life through fashion.”
He views clothing as transformative tools that allow individuals to explore and inhabit different facets of their identities, underscoring the profound impact of fashion on personal and collective consciousness.
Future Aspirations and Legacy at Valentino
Concluding the conversation, Michele shares his aspirations for Valentino, aiming to foster a creative and dreamy environment:
[34:12] Alessandro Michele: “Fashion can build a better dreamy place. I will do the same here in a different way... I like young people, I like artists.”
He envisions Valentino as a beacon of creativity and inclusivity, nurturing young talent and collaborating with artists to push the boundaries of fashion.
Closing Remarks
Nicole Phelps wraps up the episode by expressing anticipation for Michele’s forthcoming couture show, while Michele conveys his eagerness to continue his creative journey with Valentino.
[36:05] Nicole Phelps: “We are going to be counting the days till your couture show. Thank you so much for joining me here.”
[36:13] Alessandro Michele: “Thank you, Nicole. I can't wait to see you in Paris.”
Conclusion
This episode offers a profound glimpse into Alessandro Michele's transition to Valentino, showcasing his dedication to preserving the brand's legacy while infusing it with his unique artistic vision. Through thoughtful reflections and passionate insights, listeners gain an appreciation for the intricate artistry behind haute couture and the personal inspirations that drive one of fashion's most visionary designers.