Forever Valentino Celebrates 60 Years of The Maison

Brands might try and co-opt scarlet hues but when it comes to the colour red there is no denying its association with the legendary Italian designer Valentino Garavani. Well, the dreamlike world he started back in 1959 is getting a much-deserved retrospective at M7 in Doha come October featuring over 200 Haute Couture, ready-to-wear, accessories and fashion objects. Titled Forever Valentino, the exhibit traces Garavani’s career through an immersive reimagining depicting panoramic views of Rome (where the couturier calls home). Put together in partnership with Qatar Creates, Qatar Museums, and Maison Valentino, this marks the brand’s largest exhibition to date and the first presentation in the Middle East.

Within the show’s collection long-standing Valentino client Her Highness Sheikha Moza bin Nassar loaned pieces from her expansive couture collection. Alongside her garments will be rarely seen pieces designed for Elizabeth Taylor and Jacqueline Kennedy, alongside contemporary designs for the current brand ambassador Zendaya. After all, how could they leave out the whimsical creations by Garavani's successor Pierpaolo Piccioli ? The creative director's awe-inspiring romance will be on display, along with an unveiling of the Valentino A/W 22 Haute Couture collection.

More than just a fanciful display of one of the 21st centuries greatest visionaries, 'Forever Valentino' is also a celebration of design and the Eternal City. Expertly curated by Artistic Director of the New Museum Massimiliano Gioni, and revered fashion critic and author Alexander Fury, the duo's adept knowledge and research based approach is sure to bring context to the theatrical presentation.

'Forever Valentino' is on view at M7 from 28 October to 1 April 2023.