Rome, May 12, 2026 – Valentino Garavani has unveiled its latest campaign for the iconic ‘Rockstud’ collection, set against the eternal backdrop of Rome. Photographed by Johnny Dufort and directed by Shayne Laverdiere, the campaign showcases the new footwear designs amidst the city’s monumental marble and flowing water, blending the brand’s heritage with a contemporary aesthetic.
Alessandro Michele Reimagines a Valentino Icon
Creative director Alessandro Michele has reinterpreted one of the Roman brand’s most recognizable icons for the Valentino pre-fall 2026 collection. First introduced in the autumn/winter 2010-11 fashion show, the ‘Rockstud’ shoes return with a refreshed, contemporary appeal. Michele’s vision refines the distinctive “cage” construction with tapered lines, sculpted toes adorned with a platinum finish, and signature red inner soles.
Diverse Styles and Color Palette
The new décolleté shoes are available in two versions, featuring 100mm and 40mm heels, catering to various style preferences. The collection boasts an extensive color palette, ranging from classic neutral tones to vibrant hues such as bright green and light blue. In addition to the décolleté, the collection also includes elegant sandals with straps and sophisticated ballet flats, offering a comprehensive range of choices for the modern woman.
The campaign imagery captures the new décolleté during a “walk, guided by an instinctive search for eternal beauty and permeated by a sense of audacious elegance and discreet sensuality, distinctive of the maison,” explains the fashion house. This narrative emphasizes the brand’s core values and its deep connection to its Roman roots.
Balance of Strength and Lightness
“In a balance between strength and lightness, structure and fluidity, the campaign portrays the ‘Rockstud’ as a living expression of the Maison’s identity: an icon that continues to evolve, reinventing its unmistakable codes, while remaining deeply anchored to its origins,” the brand statement further elaborates. This highlights the enduring appeal and adaptability of the ‘Rockstud’ design, which has become a symbol of Valentino’s innovative spirit.
The choice of Rome as the setting for the campaign is particularly significant, as it underscores Valentino’s deep connection to the city where the brand was founded. The monumental architecture and rich history of Rome provide a powerful contrast to the contemporary design of the ‘Rockstud’ collection, creating a visual dialogue between past and present.
The Legacy of ‘Rockstud’
Since its inception, the ‘Rockstud’ collection has been celebrated for its distinctive pyramid-shaped studs, which have become a hallmark of Valentino Garavani. The latest reinterpretation by Alessandro Michele ensures that this iconic design remains relevant and desirable, appealing to both long-time admirers and new generations of fashion enthusiasts. The collection’s blend of classic elegance and modern edge reinforces Valentino’s position as a leader in luxury fashion.
The campaign is expected to generate significant buzz within the fashion industry and among consumers, further solidifying the ‘Rockstud’ collection’s status as a timeless classic. The blend of high-fashion photography, strategic direction, and a powerful narrative set in an iconic city creates a compelling visual story that resonates with the brand’s sophisticated audience.
The new Valentino Garavani ‘Rockstud’ collection is now available in select boutiques and online, inviting fashion connoisseurs to experience the fusion of Roman heritage and contemporary design.
