-SPECIAL- “VALENTINO” 00’s houndstooth lace flower corsage

From VALENTINO, whose couture spirit in Italy has elevated lace and floral motifs and a softly feminine allure into refined embellishments through exceptional craftsmanship, we are pleased to present an exemplary atelier piece built around the flower within the layering of its materials.

This piece is formed by layering a monochrome houndstooth-pattern knit with delicate black lace, with a soft brushed texture and a translucent, shadowy shading coming together to form a single three-dimensional bloom.

The petal-like parts, with the plush pile characteristic of angora blends and the classic expression created by the black-and-white knit pattern, are irregularly overlaid with black rib lace, lending depth beyond mere prettiness and a couture-like tension.

Unlike typical corsages that are flat decorations, this piece features a complex layering of knit, lace, tulle-like translucency, and edges finished near raw edges, so the silhouette changes with the viewing angle, and the fabric shadows rise naturally at the chest or neckline, resulting in a highly sculptural finish.

The composition uses 50% angora, 30% wool, and 20% nylon, with angora's characteristic soft fluff giving the petals a lush expression, and with the warmth of wool and the stability of nylon that enhances the piece's ability to maintain its brooch form while presenting a delicate appearance.

What is particularly impressive is that it does not simply use a classic houndstooth-knit as is, but is reconstructed into a flower shape by fragmentary switching and interweaving with lace; the dignified British-pattern elegance and the decorative beauty typical of an Italian maison coexist in a single small piece, endowing this item with a unique added value.

The back is equipped with a brooch pin, enabling it to be attached to jackets, coats, dresses, bags, etc., to alter the look of the ensemble; as an accessory, it can edit the impression of the clothing itself, making it a highly fashion-forward item.

Regarding the era, the seven-digit postal code listed on the tag indicates distribution in Japan after 1998; the old JIS care label "FOR JAPAN ONLY" was used before 2016; along with Valentino Boutique Japan's agency listing and a price of 190,000 yen at the time, this piece is best understood as an archival piece from around 1998 to 2008, during the late tenure of Valentino Garavani and the transition period.

This price of 190,000 yen is exceptionally high for a mere decorative accessory; when you consider the artisanal process of assembling knit and lace into the flower form and the luxurious angora-rich material, it is more appropriately regarded as couture accessory with a level of finish closer to clothing rather than mass-produced jewelry.

The flower motif at VALENTINO is not only a sign of splendor but, like lace, drapery, and embroidery, an important decorative language that adds a poetic three-dimensional presence around the body; this piece condenses that aesthetic into a small scale, bringing a gentle warmth and classic depth to winter dressing.

Styling-wise, wearing it at the center of a refined tailored jacket or long coat adds Valentino-like soft ornamentation to a classic look; pairing it with a simple dress or blouse makes the three-dimensionality of the lace and knit a balanced accent. Attaching it near the handle of a bag also tightens the overall outfit while producing an elegant, lingering impression, making this an item that naturally fits into elegant, fashion-forward daily wear.

Please take this opportunity.