Alessandro Michele drops a surprise Valentino collection

Alessandro Michele is a veritable pro at keeping the fashion world on its toes. Known for his maximalist eccentricity, the designer’s Gucci days were characterised by the unexpected – be it putting on a show exclusively featuring sets of identical twins, sending models down the catwalk carrying replicas of their own heads, or breaking gender confines through his designs.

Now, Michele has gone and surprised us all again by dropping his first collection for Valentino on the final day of Milan Fashion Week Men’s, less than three months after being announced as the new Creative Director of the storied fashion house.

Michele’s impromptu debut, aptly named ‘Avant les Débuts’, was shared online earlier today in lookbook form.

It consists of more than 260 images spanning ready-to-wear and accessories, providing a comprehensive sneak peek of the designer’s vision for the Roman fashion house.

The mixed-gender collection references a number of iconic Valentino Garavani moments and motifs, including the 1968 white collection. Yet it’s quintessential Michele in its overall vibe and aesthetic, with the animal prints, faux-fur trims, crystal- and pearl-encrusted accessories, 70s ruffles and kitsch details aplenty.