Alessandro Michele’s first couture collection for Valentino reimagines the house’s legacy with rich historical references.

Citing a fascination with lists, the Italian designer revealed the myriad inspirations in each of the 48 unique ensembles.

When Alessandro Michele was growing up in Rome in the 1970s, one of his favorite pastimes was to rummage through his mother’s closet and to run his hands over the rustling taffeta, glinting sequins, and other adornments of time past.