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Le Méta-Théâtre des Intimités (The Meta-Theatre of Intimacies), was a Valentino sensory overload that blurred the lines between public and private, intimacy and performance. Set against the backdrop of a public restroom bathed in lurid red light, the show unfolded as a statement on how we construct identity through the act of dressing.
Michele drew from sociologist Erving Goffman’s concept of “front stage” and “backstage” selves, suggesting that no version of ourselves is ever truly authentic—everything is a curated act.
Models emerged from bathroom stalls, highlighting the idea that even our most private moments are a form of performance. The collection reflected this duality—lace bodysuits left undone at the crotch juxtaposed with slouchy tweed trousers and bow-tied ’40s day dresses. Elements of lingerie were paired with casual athleisure, while sheer slip dresses hid beneath voluminous coats. Michele’s signature maximalist touch was omnipresent—embellished sleeves, exaggerated peplums, and opulent accessories like broad-brimmed hats and vintage-inspired handbags. The colour palette was equally delicious—inky blacks, dusty roses, and deep plums punctuated by flashes of vibrant Valentino red. The mix of textures—structured wool, sheer organza, and plush fur—created a tactile experience that was playful.
Michele revisited house codes, bringing back signature motifs like diamond prints and feline graphics while adding his playful, almost theatrical twist. He blended retro glamour with modern irreverence—think peekaboo bustiers with high-waisted ’70s jeans and slinky evening gowns with unexpected fur trims.
The bathroom setting acted as an equaliser, where models emerged both vulnerable and empowered, mirroring the fluidity of identity. The space, described by Michele as “a counter-place that suspends the dualism between inside and outside,” echoed his commentary on the dissolution of boundaries between public and private life in the age of social media.
However, the collection felt overwhelming at times. With so many looks on display, the narrative lost its clarity.
Pictures courtesy of Vogue Runway
We do not own the rights to any of these images and they have been used in good faith. Every effort has been made to ensure that all images are used with proper credits. If you are the rightful owner of any image used on our site and wish to have it removed, please contact us at ayerhsmagazine@gmail.com and we will promptly remove it. We are a non-commercial, passion-driven, independent fashion blog and do not intend to infringe any copyright. Thank you for your understanding.
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