Valentino Haute Couture F/W 2015,

Photo by Fabrizio Ferri, for Vogue Italia, September 2015

This image is for advertising purposes, due to it being published in Vogue Italia, September 2015. This image’s subject is deliberately off central. Ferri has done this so the viewer acknowledges the background, which makes up the image. The way the models have been positioned is also interesting. I believe Ferri was trying to capture something mysterious. The models are huddled, as if part of a clan, protecting each other. The image feels mystical and bewitched.

The style of the image fits with the inspiration behind the Valentino collection. Valentino wanted to capture Italy’s routes and this photo also succeeds in doing this. The collection captures many aspects of Rome, including the marble tiles off of the cathedrals, the arches off of the coliseum walls, as well as Ancient Rome. The collection shows a reference to gladiator armour, golden wreathes associated with Julius Caesar’s reign and Roman emperor and empresses clothing. The mood of the image, combined with the dark clothing could also symbolise the darkness during the middle ages. Piccioli himself said, “Rome is just a little bit noir, a little sinister”. The dress at the front appears to be some sort of black bird, this links to the symbol of the Holy Roman Empire that existed in the Middle Ages. The photographer adds to this effect with dark tones and using a backdrop with arches very similar to the coliseum.

This is nothing like what Ferri has done before. He is known for taking portraits of beautiful famous women. He rarely photographs collections, or group photos. He is known for having an Italian style and creating endearing photos, which is why I think he was perfect for capturing an Italian brand. This image is also different to the brand’s usual style. Valentino is known for its ‘glitterati chic’ and usually consists of a very feminine colour pallet, due to the brand being recognised by its femininity. Although the materials used are still intricate and delicate, there is less embroidery and the frequent use of black goes completely against the normal colour pallet.

 

Bibliography:

• Neves J (2017) A History Of The Life Of Valentino Garavani,

Available from: www.farfetch.com/style-guide/icons-influencers/a-history-of-the-life-of-fashion-icon-valentino-garavani/

[Accessed 1^st Nov 2017]

• Phelps N (2015) Fall 2015 Couture Valentino,

Available from: https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/fall-2015-couture/valentino

[Accessed 1^st Nov 2017]

• Felner J (date unknown) Valentino Haute Couture Fall 2015,

Available from: jeffybruce.blogspot.co.uk/2015/07/valentino-haute-couture-fall-2015

[Accessed 1^st Nov 2017]