The pressure on Alessandro Michele right now is astronomical. He was already under the microscope for his debut, but now? He has to carry the torch of the founder's death. His decision to show in Rome instead of Paris looks like a genius move in hindsight—a return to the roots. If he can channel this grief into his collection, we might see the greatest tribute show in history. But if he turns Valentino into 'Gucci 2.0,' the backlash will be unforgivable.

It is tragically poetic that Valentino died right as Paris Fashion Week kicks off. Watching these new 'hypebeast' designers send hoodies down the runway while we mourn the man who invented the red carpet gown is jarring. Valentino stood for craftsmanship and 1,300-hour dresses. Modern fashion stands for logos and TikTok moments. His death marks the official end of 'Luxury' and the beginning of 'Merch.' He got out before the industry completely lost its soul.

We didn't just lose a designer; we lost the last living link to the Golden Age of couture. Valentino Garavani was the definition of 'La Dolce Vita.' He didn't chase trends; he chased beauty. In an era where fashion has become ugly, ironic, and street-wear obsessed, Valentino never apologized for making women look glamorous. The 'Valentino Red' isn't just a color; it’s an emotion. The industry feels smaller today without The Emperor. We will never see elegance like that again.