Gianvito Rossi, the celebrated Italian shoe designer, has unveiled his inaugural handbag, the Valì, marking a significant development following his strategic partnership with luxury conglomerate Richemont.
The Valì epitomizes the Gianvito Rossi brand—a fusion of exquisite artisanal craftsmanship, contemporary luxury, and sleek aesthetics.
In a virtual conference from the company’s headquarters in San Mauro Pascoli, Emilia Romagna, Gianvito Rossi expressed his long-standing aspiration to create a handbag. Acknowledging the profound role of handbags in women’s lives globally, he sought to provide his unique interpretation.
On October 18, the Valì will make its global debut through exclusive pop-up events at Bergdorf Goodman and Isetan, with launches in select international retailers. The Valì collection will also be available at Gianvito Rossi boutiques, which currently number 39 worldwide. A curated selection of Valì styles will be exclusively offered on Net-a-Porter, serving as the online retail partner for this launch.
Gianvito Rossi’s vision for the Valì was to craft a bag that mirrored the functionality of a suitcase, albeit in a more compact form. The Valì’s design, characterized by rounded angles, channels the robust elegance of vintage suitcases while maintaining a remarkably lightweight structure. It is meticulously crafted from fine calfskin and presented in four sophisticated color choices: black, peach, off white, and violet.
Gianvito Rossi emphasized his design philosophy, aiming for a harmonious balance between strength and elegance with a subtle feminine touch, avoiding sharp angles. He also hinted at a potential future release of a smaller-sized Valì.
In conjunction with this exciting product launch, Gianvito Rossi has been actively expanding his brand’s presence. The brand has established new boutiques in Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, Shenzhen, and Hanoi. Upcoming endeavors include boutique openings in Kuwait and Riyadh, marking the brand’s inaugural store in Saudi Arabia, located in Faisaliah Mall.
As the son of legendary shoe designer Sergio Rossi, Gianvito Rossi has cultivated a distinctive style deeply rooted in Italian culture. He remains a passionate advocate for preserving Italian artistry while continually reinterpreting it. This commitment led to the majority stake sale of the brand he founded in 2006 to Richemont, the Swiss luxury group that boasts prestigious brands such as Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Chloé, and more.
The partnership with Richemont aligns with their shared vision, emphasizing long-term quality and strategic expansion through direct retail. While specific financial details remain undisclosed, Gianvito Rossi’s brand boasts estimated annual sales exceeding €99 million.
Looking ahead, Gianvito Rossi is focused on driving global sales, expanding retail reach, and increasing production without compromising quality. Despite a recent temporary market slowdown, he maintains confidence in the enduring and growing demand for exceptionally high-quality products. The brand produces around 320,000 pairs of shoes annually.
Gianvito Rossi’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection finds inspiration in the rich heritage of Ancient Rome. The collection features striking gladiator sandals adorned with leather wristbands, reminiscent of imperial Rome. Accessories in silver and gold, infused with ancient detailing, pay homage to the grandeur of Roman triumph.
Gianvito Rossi’s unique blend of opulence and boldness has earned the admiration of notable figures, including Rihanna, Michelle Yeoh, and Anitta. Celebrities are drawn to Gianvito Rossi’s creations because of their meticulous design, intended to enhance a woman’s appearance without overpowering her.
Regarding the prospect of entering the luxury hospitality sector, Gianvito Rossi remains an enthusiastic hotel guest but not an owner, preferring to savor the art of hotel living.
