2009 Valentino Black Silk & Beaded Sheer Illusion Lace Strapless Bustier Gown

ID: 1122252

Size: medium

Condition: excellent

This absolutely gorgeous pre-fall 2009 Valentino black sheer illusion lace strapless gown is a breathtaking early design from the newly appointed co–creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli. Though the duo had worked behind the scenes at Valentino for over a decade, this transitional era marked one of the first collections at the helm — and they approached it with a fresh romantic vision. This gown was featured prominently in their pre-fall catalogue, a collection especially marketed in the Chinese and East Asian markets. It clearly resonated — Taiwanese pop star and former news anchor Patty Hou wore it to the 20th Golden Melody Awards, and it was actress Charmaine Sheh's choice for Hong Kong’s 2009 TVB Awards Ceremony.

This Valentino is all about sensual illusion and masterful texture. The strapless fully-boned bustier bodice is fashioned in finely pleated black silk, its edges lightly touches the delicate lace that peeks out along the top like soft eyelash trim. From there, the dress melts into a mesmerizing nude-illusion foundation enveloped in black floral lace, heavily embellished with sequins and dangling black beads that shimmer and sway with every move. The lace is ruched gently across the torso, creating that body-skimming hourglass Valentino silhouette. And then comes the drama: an oversized, architectural bow that wraps around the bust and transforms into a long sash that drapes the length of the gown to the floor. It’s beautifully constructed, sculptural, and very much a signature of Chiuri and Piccioli’s early work. The hemline finishes with elegantly scalloped lace, adding just a kiss of softness as it pools behind you. This is the kind of gown that belongs at life’s most luminous events — an important red carpet, galas, black-tie weddings; anywhere you want a moment that photographs like a dream. Collectors of modern Valentino know how special the early designs are, and wearing these dresses feels like stepping directly into the brand’s evolving history — commanding, feminine, and unforgettable.