TIMELESS BEAUTY WITH THE FORCE OF YOUTH
by Timothy Hagy
Valentino once called up Emanuel Ungaro, practically in tears, upset that his age had been listed (erroneously?) in the press. While that exact number is a matter of contention, it is safe to say that he is the oldest of the couturiers still in charge of his own House.
But for Spring 2004, the King of Rome sent out a light, fluttering collection that was younger in
spirit than any in recent memory. Graceful and sexy, he managed to balance youthful élan with timeless elegance.
"Light, light, light," Valentino said in program
notes. "I want these clothes to make a woman feel as though she is wearing nothing at all."
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Ironically, it was the magical draping, sensuously veiling the silhouette, which struck at the heart of this collection. The clothes literally caressed the body, displaying with finesse the tailoring for which Valentino is so well known.
Butterflies flew onto mini-boleros and corsets, while flowers sprouted on blouses and short dresses.
