Valentino challenges masculine notions, opening Milan Fashion Week menswear previews

By COLLEEN BARRY
AP Fashion Writer

MILAN (AP) — The cries of adoring fans filled the air as stars like actor Jacob Elordi and Italian singer Elodie arrived for the Valentino show, which opened Milan Fashion Week menswear previews on Friday. The Milan menswear calendar was missing some mainstays, but Valentino’s menswear repatriation for this season kicked off the week with high energy. Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli’s collection for next summer is rooted in tailoring with some feminine flair, seen in softening colors, floral motifs and flowing shapes. The suit is the bedrock of the collection, starting with monochromes in white: jacket, shirt, tie and a thigh-revealing Bermuda short. Black footwear, socks and accessories ensured the urban edge. But it was the floral detailing that lifted the collection.