Balenciaga, Emanuel Ungaro, Rodarte. Many of the names this collection has received by a general public. Our judgement: A leap of faith. There is some truth in that this collection goes a bit more far out than previous ones from designers Maria Grazia Churi and Pier Paolo Piccialiyet there are some clear connections to them as well. The creative and innovative use of sheer was used in dresses just like the previous ready-to-wear season. This time, Valentino goes the extra mile by incorporating this idea into body suits, coats and pants. The idea of semi-transparent pants is quite fascinating as it easily creates for a more formal wear and at the same time staying truthful to its new updated, youthful look. Ribbons and laces flow through the show as the models cross through the catwalk as colorful fairies. It is the use of color and asymmetrical designs that is the eye-opener here. There is such an unexpected feeling of vibrancy and liveliness as bright colors make a splash creating shapes suited for a view from eden. The créme de la créme and s always, is Valentino shoes as they always make their impression. This time, the laced booties cross and intercross each other making their way upwards to end up on an elegant bow creating a delicate silk-like feeling throughout. Yet the best part out of this creation is the color difference between the shoe platform and the laces. It not only makes for an instant "attention-grabbing" and elegantly commanding piece but it´s also innovative and fashion forward in regards to their latest Valentino collections. It's this forward way of thinking that allows the customers to understand that as times change so does Valentino, which is key in this time of competition and bankruptcies in the fashion industry. Sometimes a bit of regroup and reinvention is key to merchandising and attracting new audiences willing to keep that Valentino fire alive. And even if there was one red leather piece that confused the audience with its presence in contrast to all others, there is no doubt that this Haute Couture collection was made with an ingenious set of ideas and detailed craftmanship that is bound to pay its dues. New times have indeed arrived at Valentino and we are eager to see where these colors of the wind will lead us.