COUTURE DOUBLE-HEADER: It’s shaping up to be a memorable Paris Couture Week for Giambattista Valli this July, when he will be elevated from Knight to Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters.

In lieu of two events, he’s decided to combine the unveiling of his fall 2025 haute couture collection with a celebration event at his Paris headquarters, which is a stone’s throw from the Opéra Garnier.

This “more private event” is billed as an exclusive presentation, not a traditional runway show, “offering guests a more personal and immersive experience.”

Vall has mounted exhibitions for couture in lieu of runway displays several times, just before and during the pandemic, offering a close-up, unhurried view of his maison’s know-how. He first ventured into haute couture in 2012.

The Rome-born, Paris-based designer was decorated as a Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters during Paris Fashion Week in September 2023, with Diana Widmaier Picasso and Anna Wintour delivering testimonials.

The French award of merit is bestowed by the Ministry of Culture.

Established in 1957 to recognize artists and writers, as well as others who have contributed significantly to the arts in France, the Order of Arts and Letters has been awarded to the likes of Iris van Herpen, Demna, Simon Porte Jacquemus, architect Peter Marino and the late fashion editor André Leon Talley.

Valli is racking up the accolades this year. Last month, Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week handed the designer its 2025 Industry Impact Award, which recognizes significant contributions to the bridal sector. The designer introduced his first “Love” bridal capsule, sold by trunk show, in 2021.