‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition: Everything you need to know

Opening in Doha this October, the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition holds the promise of a stunning theatrical experience as the Maison dives into its Haute Couture codes and a voyage through Valentino’s home in Rome. 

What an exceptional year it has been for Maison Valentino. While the present is still blindingly bright in an iconic Pink PP shade; the future, a juxtaposition of minimalism-meets-maximalism; one can’t deny it all leads back to the beginning of the house. 

It encompasses two keywords: Valentino Garavani and Rome. It was in 1959 when the founder began the story of Valentino at the height of the Dolce Vita. It’s this Eternal City that Garavani (and even now, his successor Pierpaolo Piccioli) looks to as a source of inspiration, almost like a love letter. In fact, Valentino planted his headquarters in the heart of the city’s historic centre. In the hards of Piccioli, the image of Rome evolved from an exclusive emblem of opulence to a vibrant, multicultural metropolis. 

But what better way to follow along that journey, from that first chapter to today, than with an exhibition, Valentino-style? Bold, vibrant and ready to make a statement, the Maison has gone the extra mile to turn it into a sweeping theatrical experience. Here’s everything you need to know about the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition, including how to get tickets.

1. A few ‘firsts’

‘Forever Valentino’ will be the house’s largest exhibition thus far and, incidentally, its first presentation in the Middle East. Plus, it will coincide with Valentino Garavani’s 90th birthday and the unveiling of the Valentino Autumn/Winter 2022 Haute Couture collection in Rome.

2. The location of the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition

It will be held at M7 in Msheireb Downtown.

3. The dates for the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition

28 October 2022 till 1 April 2023

4. The people behind the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition

The exhibition is curated by Massimiliano Gioni, Artistic Director of the New Museum New York, and the fashion critic and author Alexander Fury, with a close working relationship alongside Valentino Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli.

5. What to expect from the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition

Entering through the doors of M7, you’d be leaving Doha and entering a pop-up, dream-like vision of Rome, painted in an emotional dramaturgy inspired by the 18th-century art form, capriccio. It’s Rome, but Valentino’s Rome—beautiful Italian vistas become enchanted mirages, weaving through palazzos, squares, and courtyards. Guests would be treated to intimate glimpses of the celebrated Valentino Ateliers, the storied archives of the Maison, and the fitting salons in the fabled headquarters of Piazza Mignanelli.

This mirage of the city of Rome will take you through a collage of environments and experiences, listening in on the dialogue of Valentino’s creations and its many sources of inspiration to both Garavani and Piccioli.

Also in “attendance”, over 200 Valentino Haute Couture pieces and pret-à-porter outfits—presented on mannequins by La Rosa – accompanied by accessories and fashion objects displayed in an immersive scenography. ‘Forever Valentino’ will even unlock to the audience the private memories and precious discoveries from the Maison’s six-decades-long history, including ensembles designed for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Jacqueline Kennedy and Zendaya that have otherwise been a rare sight. 

6. How to get tickets to the ‘Forever Valentino’ exhibition

Book your tickets here.

For more information, visit Valentino’s website.