Since their arrival at Valentino, creative duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli have dug up pre-20^th century references that they subtly merged with contemporary touches. This season was no exception, as nudges at childrenswear from Victorian England (from pastels, white, Liberty prints made for a sweet, reserved elegance), and Second Empire-inspired dresses walked down the runway – all for a decisively 2012 result. 

Think simple, mid-calf skirts and bejewelled cardigans for the daytime, and straight-cut tops paired with flowing, elongated skirts in taffeta for evening-wear. Ballgowns were either strapless with lace and silk applique, or with a high neck, sheer sleeves and plenty of bows. As for the recurrent loafers, worn with a matching pencil skirt or pleated trousers, those offered a more informal touch to the intricate collection.