RED Valentino

Mr. Valentino has a well-documented love of the ballet. In 2012, for instance, he collaborated with the New York City Ballet and its longtime Master-in-Chief, Peter Martins, to create the costumes for three brand-new dances. (The works were debuted at the gala opening of the City Ballet’s 2012 -2013 season, and Mr. Valentino was honored in film and onstage at the event.) Another example: One of Mr. Valentino’s first creative endeavors, after retiring from his maison, was his creation of 16 sumptuous costumes for the 2010 New Year’s Day ballet performed in Vienna, an event broadcast live to over 50 countries.

Given Mr. Valentino’s passion for classical ballet, his delight at the Spring ’14 Red Valentino collection should come as no surprise. Continuing the tradition at Maison Valentino, the looks owed a debt to the dance—in particular their many abbreviated dresses with tutu-like skirts. And the Red Valentino collection wasn’t short on other signature house motifs: Bows, vivid florals and delicate embroidery all made an appearance. As they say at the ballet, bravissimo!