Meghan Tar: Valentino's Latest Line Reveals Downton Influences

PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 24, 2012

Paris Fashion Week is an eagerly anticipated event each and every year, and this year's fashion shows did not disappoint. Most notably, Valentino's line, populated by long sleeve, modest styles that accentuate the female shape, showcased heavy influences from the popular television series Downton Abbey. The Los Angeles Times reports that the show's inspiration was rooted in "Nostalgia for female sensuality, not sexuality." Meghan Tar, a fashion enthusiast from Miami, Florida, and long-time fan of Valentino's collections, notes that cultural influences often find their way into the fashion field.

The article asserts that "The designers [Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli], who have been at the helm of the fabled Roman fashion house since 2008, turned out a graceful collection of demure frocks that brought to mind the ladies of 'Downton.'" The article goes on to explain that the overall aesthetic of the line embodies a ladylike modesty with "Dresses that skim rather than cling, leaving something to the imagination." Also found among the many pieces within the collection are silhouettes that fall just below the knee and feature loosely fitted waistlines. Intricate stitching, lace, buttons, floral fabrics, puffy sleeves, and high necklines are also prominent throughout the collection, which is colored by neutrals, pinks, reds, and black.

"Lace, bows, and silk are the first words that come to mind when I think of Valentino," comments Meghan Tar. "The new line introduced for 2013 is no exception. Whether it's a long, flowing red gown or a sleek black dress, Valentino finds the medium between sexy and conservative that allows women to feel both beautiful and confident."

Tar goes on to note that Downton Abbey has influenced a great deal since its popularity grew, including literature, and she is not surprised that the era in which the show takes place has made its mark on the fashion industry--particularly as the costumes within the series are a highlight for many viewers.

While the popularity of the television show may draw the attention of some new fans to Valentino's line, Tar asserts that the craftsmanship, delicacy, and beauty of the designer's work have not been compromised by the effort to create a more modest and period-inspired collection. As the article reports: "The designers have taken Valentino's fiercely feminine DNA and softened it, making it their own, and tweaking it ever so slightly each season." Tar and other Valentino fans are looking forward to procuring key pieces from the 2013 line and seeing what the design house has in store for future seasons.

ABOUT:

Meghan Tar is a psychology student at the University of Miami in Miami, Florida. In addition to her passion for clinical psychology and volunteer work, Meghan Tar is interested in fashion and interior design. Meghan Tar loves the diversity of Miami's population and encourages visitors of the city to attend the various cultural and artistic events that the area hosts.

Website: http://meghantar.com/