Paris Collections | Valentino S/S16

The house of Valentino based it’s show on the experiences of a world traveler by showing “a multicultural style concept”. By mixing military and sailor looks, couture with jeans and Hawaiian shirts, sandals and sneakers, the eclectic traveler was born. There isn’t a single man who wouldn’t find something, if not lots of things, from this collection to covet.

Creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli brought out their “references” catalog this season. From Spanish summer footwear and guitar straps on backpacks to Native American weaving and souvenir jackets – which seem to be this season’s “must have” outerwear piece (but in leather, of course, because it’s Valentino) – men wearing anything from this collection look not only chic but also well traveled. 

Also: Paris Collections | Dries Van Noten S/S16

There’s something to be said about elevated construction and Valentino packs a punch. Exactly what is expected from the brand went up a notch with its hand – stitched and thermal bonded denim. Studs on jackets and backpacks brings, black coats with multicolored exquisitely crafted ethnic motifs and a Latin style poncho brings couture culture into pieces men can wear everyday. Military chinos appeared comfortable paired back to printed shirts, leather shirts (the perfect statement piece if you’re brave enough to pull it off) and sneakers or sandals. Many looks layered with stylish coats from leather to camouflage and olive jackets in cotton/silk mix as well as the ever so classic trench with a special Valentino touch.

As for accessories, fanny packs made a precarious appearance that was both a bit “off” yet appropriate at the same time. As contradictory as the show’s soundtrack, Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” synchronically set to orchestra strings, the Spring ’16 Valentino collection was a splendid combination of high fashion couture and street wear.

Header image: Catwalking (Getty Images)