John Galliano is expected to stage a one-off couture show on July 2, inside Versaille’s stunning Orangerie. Considering the location and Galliano’s penchant for unabashed excess, many surmise it will be a show dedicated to Ms. Marie Antoinette. I beg to differ. If there is an consistency to his madness, its in its uncanny ability to surprise. An Antoinette-themed collection is akin to tweeds as Chanel. Beautiful? Yes. Inspiring? I say nay.
Valentino has been purchased by private equity firm Permira for $672 million, with the firm expected to offer a full takeover bid by the end of summer. Sure, private equity and leveraged buyouts are hot matters. But considering most acquisitions result in the acquirer paying too much and the median age of Valentino’s clientele, I question the soundness of the offer.
Photos: boutiqueparis.blogspot.com, theage.com.au
