Alessandro Michele, the creative director of the iconic fashion house, took a bold leap into uncharted territory. 

At Paris Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2025, Valentino presented its collection in one of the most unexpected venues imaginable: a meticulously recreated public restroom.

Whether you see it as genius or madness, one thing is certain: this bathroom break will go down in fashion history.

Yes, you read that right – a public restroom. And it wasn’t just a quirky gimmick; it was a deliberate and provocative exploration of themes like intimacy, exposure, and identity.

The venue itself was a masterpiece of set design. Every detail was painstakingly replicated to evoke the gritty realism of a public bathroom, complete with tiled walls, soap dispensers, mirrors, and rows of stalls. The entire space was bathed in an eerie red glow that felt straight out of a David Lynch film, setting the stage for what would be one of the most talked-about shows of the season. The atmosphere was unsettling yet captivating, challenging traditional notions of luxury and beauty.

As the show began, models emerged from stalls to the sound of flushing toilets and techno beats. Some paused to check their reflections in the mirrors before striding down the runway. This theatrical staging blurred the lines between private rituals and public performance, underscoring Michele’s fascination with the intersection of intimacy and exposure. The collection itself was a feast for the senses—an extravagant blend of historical references, cinematic influences, and unapologetic maximalism.

Michele’s designs were as eclectic as they were daring. Sheer nude tops revealed bare skin beneath, juxtaposing vulnerability with boldness. Intricately embroidered lingerie featured luxurious silk paired with rigid Victorian collars, while some pieces seemed intentionally undone, evoking the hurried intimacy of a restroom encounter. Baroque embellishments clashed with faded denim jeans, while leopard-print faux fur and tweed added an almost chaotic energy to the collection.

Accessories played a starring role in creating characters on the runway. Oversized sunglasses and balaclavas offered anonymity, while chunky necklaces and patterned headscarves added layers of drama. One standout look featured a transparent nude bodysuit paired with a fur-trimmed train and a daring slit skirt—an audacious nod to both concealment and revelation.

In his post-show remarks, Michele described the public restroom as a “counter-space” where societal norms are neutralized

The collection also included unexpected collaborations, such as reimagined Vans sneakers that added a touch of streetwear to the otherwise opulent lineup.

Michele’s ability to merge high fashion with everyday elements further emphasized his theme of breaking down boundaries, between public and private, casual and formal.