Today, Alessandro Michele released his first resort collection for Valentino. The surprise move divided the fashion world. Here’s how the internet reacted.

Alessandro Michele’s debut collection for Valentino features 171 ready-to-wear looks and is called Avant les Débuts. (Instagram)

Months before the scheduled debut collection for Valentino Spring 2025, Alessandro Michele, formerly Gucci’s creative designer, presented 171 ready-to-wear looks. Alessandro joined the on April 2. The news was announced a week after the Italian luxury brand announced the “joint decision” to end its 25-year collaboration with creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli.

Alessandro presented his look book for the debut resort collection just two months after joining the Maison. According to Vogue, apart from the 171 ready-to-wear looks, the designer also presented an additional look book dedicated to accessories, including shoes and bags.

How did the internet react?

The fashion world and the internet were divided over the new collection. While some praised Alessandro for bringing his fresh touch to Valentino, others said that Valentino’s elegance, grace, and sophistication were missing.

Fashion commentator Hanan Besovic, the name behind @ideservecouture, pointed out that Alessandro released the collection on the day of Gucci’s show with a funny video. “Oh what a coincidence and not just few looks but 171,” the caption said. For the uninitiated is set to showcase his Spring Summer 2025 collection at Milan Fashion Week today.