Alessandro Michele: “There is always Mr. Valentino somewhere with me”
Sep 27, 2024
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In a captivating discussion, Alessandro Michele, the creative director of Gucci and Valentino, shares insights into his artistic journey. He reflects on the legacy of Valentino Garavani, stating, "There is always Valentino somewhere with me." Michele emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, viewing success as embracing personal authenticity rather than traditional metrics. He explores the deep connections between nostalgia, creative freedom, and the transformative power of fashion, inspiring aspiring designers to cherish their unique paths.
Alessandro Michele revitalizes Valentino by infusing his whimsical vision and deep connection to the brand's heritage and craftsmanship.
Michele redefines success as personal fulfillment and authenticity, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself rather than conforming to external pressures.
Passion is portrayed as an essential driving force in creativity, encouraging aspiring designers to embrace their individual journeys despite challenges.
Deep dives
The Range Rover Evoque: A Symbol of Sophistication
The Range Rover Evoque exemplifies the epitome of good taste and style in today’s automotive world. This SUV merges sophisticated and daring design with advanced technology and premium materials, making it a standout in its category. Its sleek exterior features elements such as a floating roof and continuous waistline, which not only enhance its visual appeal but also pay homage to the classic Range Rover heritage. Inside, the cabin showcases a minimalist design accentuated by a user-friendly center console, offering a tailored experience that appeals to a wide range of drivers.
Alessandro Michele's Creative Evolution
Alessandro Michele’s journey within the fashion industry has been marked by a unique blend of creativity and passion, leading to his appointment as Valentino’s new creative director. Having revitalized Gucci with his whimsical vision, Michele reflects on how this unique perspective shapes his approach to his new role at Valentino. He emphasizes a deep connection to Valentino's heritage, acknowledging the influence of the house's namesake and the significance of craftsmanship in his designs. This combination of nostalgia and risk-taking defines Michele's aspirations for bringing a fresh narrative to Valentino while honoring its illustrious history.
Redefining Success in Creative Fields
Michele breaks down conventional definitions of success, suggesting that it should be viewed in a more circular manner rather than a linear ascent. He believes that true success lies in being at peace with oneself and making choices that resonate personally, rather than conforming to external expectations. This nuanced perspective encourages individuals to embrace their unique journeys and recognize that success can take many forms—often intertwined with challenges and failures. By focusing on personal fulfillment, Michele offers a refreshing take on how to navigate the pressures of the fashion industry.
Navigating Popularity and External Expectations
Michele candidly shares his experiences of managing the spotlight that comes with fame, unfazed by external scrutiny as he concentrates on authenticity in his work. He reflects on the chaotic nature of modern fame and the challenges presented by social media, emphasizing an internal focus rather than external validation. By staying grounded in his values and beliefs, he maintains a creative space that is uninfluenced by outside pressures. This commitment to self-acceptance enables Michele to create with freedom and joy, ultimately allowing his true artistry to shine.
Passion as a Driving Force
Michele underscores the importance of passion as a vital component in achieving life and career goals, describing it as an essential gift that fuels creativity. He encourages aspiring creatives to pursue what ignites their enthusiasm, even when the path seems daunting or uncertain. Embracing the journey—complete with its ups and downs—can yield deep personal satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. Ultimately, Michele inspires others to find joy in their passions, viewing any obstacles as integral parts of their unique narratives rather than detours from their destination.
Alessandro Michele’s whimsical, bold vision as creative director of Gucci revitalised the brand, turning it into a cultural juggernaut. Now, he’s attempting to do the same at Valentino, bringing his signature blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and artistic risk-taking to reimagine the Roman couture house.
“This place has such a specific story,” he says. That name, Valentino—it’s a real name, with real life, with real love. … There is always Valentino somewhere with me.”
This week on The BoF Podcast, BoF founder and editor-in-chief Imran Amed sits down with Michele to discuss his evolution as a designer, his deep connection to Valentino’s heritage, and the importance of passion and obsession in achieving creative success.
Key insights
As creative director, Michele said that the weight of Valentino founder Valentino Garavani’s legacy continues to inspire and guide him, even in the smallest details of his work. “When I'm working by myself, with the people of the studio, with Jacopo, there is always Valentino somewhere with me. … There is always an open conversation with him because I can feel the things talking to me, through the dresses, the walls," he said.
Contemplating the meaning of success, Michele emphasises the importance of remaining true to himself as a designer. “It’s more moving left and right, rather than up and down. … Success is when you are in the right place, when you're free to be yourself,” he said. His approach to fashion is personal and deeply intuitive, and he protects his creativity by concentrating on his own creative fulfilment rather than trying to please everyone. “I don't need to be someone else. I think a big designer or a good designer needs to be himself.”
Michele approaches his work with a deep understanding that creativity comes with taking risks, both in life and in fashion. He views risk as an essential element of growth and evolution in his designs. "You are taking beautiful risks, but they are risks,” he said. “I like myself also for the things I did wrong. … Now that I’m a big boy, I like the Alessandro who did so many wrong things.”
For Michele, the magic of fashion and creating a collection lies in the uncertainty. "You put all the ingredients inside, and it’s going to be real only when the first person starts to walk on the catwalk. That’s the magic," he said. “You feel that you were pregnant, but now the baby has a proper life and you can no longer be in control. It's outside and it's gonna walk by himself or herself.”
