On Wednesday evening in Paris, Alessandro Michele, the new custodian of the 66-year-old brand, paid his respects in his own way. At the presentation of his 2026 haute couture collection, the creative director celebrated the late designer’s greatest contribution: red carpet dressing. It’s a way to take up space with confidence, one Valentino himself certainly employed at the height of his powers. Being at Valentino has given Michele the platform to continue his taste for exuberant shades, but his usage here erred in inkier and jewel-toned shades. At a pivotal time for house and fashion, Alessandro Michele proves that as long as there are Hollywood stars to dress and women pining for glamour, Valentino will live on.