Haute Coutre

Haute Couture Week 2008 has come to an end, but so too has another era. This year's event marked the last Valentino collection to be presented that is designed by the label's eponymous designer, Valentino Garavani. Yes, that's correct. Valentino is stepping down and leaving his 'baby' in the hands of former Gucci designer, Alessandra Facchinetti. Valentino is known for his fabulous gowns that honor the feminine form. This may be his last collection, but I have to say that it's one of his best ones. The gowns are of course perfectly tailored, and they pay homage to classic standards in women's fashion, such as pastels and flowers, yet do so with a modern edge. With designs this beautiful, I hate to see Valentino go.