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Rockstud by Valentino Garavani: The anatomy of an accessory

By LLM Reporters   |  

In the beginning it was the bow, a symbol of elegance of the Maison Valentino, which made romanticism and style its distinctive feature. And then came the Rockstuds, from the name alone already heralding a new wave in the historic Roman house. Eight years have passed since the two creative directors, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri launched the now unmistakable model of shoes, “Rockstud”, adding a rebellious and young note to the classic and elegant spirit that has always distinguished Valentino Gravani.

Now completely synonymous with the brand, it is hard to believe it has only been eight years. The effect was almost instantaneous. Elegantly pointed toe, petite leather straps, the ankle encircled with studs. It was destined to be a true it-shoe, capturing all the dimensions of the wearers personality. Perfectly refined, yet rebellious. They are a nod to the rock soul within all of us. Now, they cover the feet of the fashionistas all over the world.

Among the most successful projects of the new creative course at Valentino, the Rockstuds are now part of the permanent collection. Image credit: valentino.com

Rockstuds: Unique shoes in different variants

Among the most successful projects of the new creative course at Valentino, the Rockstuds are now part of the permanent collection. They vary in the most disparate colours and materials, depending on the collection, providing something for every personality and individual style. Whatever your taste, there will be a signature Valentino for you. In their three variants, heel 10 cm, mid-heel 6.5, or the very refined ballerina shoe (flatties), there isn’t a heart they cannot win over.

The evolution over the years seems to perfectly embody the guideline proposed by the two new creative directors; an incisive, sensual and at the same time elegant vision, but always linked to Valentino’s world. The small golden studs, in fact, have brought a new breath to the fashion house, seamlessly harmonising modernity, with the history and the charm of a brand so synonymous with luxury and elegance.

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA - FEB 24: Valentino Garavani at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party at Sunset Tower on February 24, 2013 in West Hollywood, California
Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani was recently honoured by the Green Carpet Fashion Awards. Image credit: Joe Seer/Bigstock.com

What makes Rockstuds unique?

The question is: what makes Rockstuds so unique and desirable? The answer is simple, but very important, for a fashionista who loves Valentino and its style. There is a balance between strength and delicacy, that these shoes carefully hold. Contemporary elegance and precision, in a classic shape.

From the first nude or black models shoes with golden studs, have sprung many versions in tantalising shades and materials: contrasting fluorescent colours, with tone-on-tone studs, spotted in pony, PVC, and even rainbow print. Classic décolletées with that extra twist, the Rockstud complements any outfit, from the bon ton dress to the worn boyfriend jeans. Elegance, versatility and rock attitude, what else could they possibly give?

The Rockstuds are perfectly refined, yet rebellious. Image credit: valentino.com

With Valentino, there is always more to give. In 2016 the Maison Valentino presented the first it-bag, born under the creative direction of Pierpaolo Piccioli, with a campaign and an exclusive video shot in New York by Terry Richardson. An accessory – called Rockstud Bag, just like the now iconic shoes – destined to become a must-have among Valentino fans. In fact, Monica Bellucci even flaunted it at the Venice Film Festival. The Rockstud’s success knows no bounds. Traditional elegance, modernised to complete relevance with an iconic rock edge.

Image credit at the very top of the article: kobby_dagan/Bigstock.com