LEONARDOVALENTINI : CRUDELIO FABIOLA
A year after its debut, LEONARDOVALENTINI, the creative project of Rome-born designer Leonardo Valentini, makes its highly anticipated return to the Milan catwalks. The brand’s presence at Lineapelle Designers Edition Designers Edition on February 27, 2025, marks a continuation of its partnership with the international event, showcasing a new collection and an intimate manifesto titled CRUDELIO FABIOLA.
At the heart of this collection lies the designer’s journey through mourning. The loss of Fabiola, and the profound sadness it left behind, became the catalyst for transforming suffering into art. This emotional depth is woven into every aspect of the collection, from the garments themselves to a poignant poem dedicated to Fabiola.
From Grief to Creation
The collection was preceded by a short film and interview released on January 8, Leonardo’s birthday, which delves into his creative process and the inspiration behind CRUDELIO FABIOLA. Built on a dual theme—balancing the fairytale of excess with the cruelty of life—the collection translates this narrative into fashion through the use of fine leathers, intricate embroideries, studs, and furs. A brand-new print pattern featuring stains symbolizes the “dirtiness of the soul,” echoing the collection’s evocative title.
A Symphony of Fashion and Music
Music has always been a cornerstone of LEONARDOVALENTINI, and this collection is no exception. The brand continues its tradition of dressing internationally renowned artists, from Irama and Maneskin to Rose Villain, Chiello, and even Lenny Kravitz. For this show, the collection is accompanied by an exclusive performance by singer SETHU, joined by guitarist and brother Jiz. Known for his participation in Sanremo 2023, Sethu’s music—ranging from restlessness to euphoria—perfectly complements the collection’s fluid, genre-defying aesthetic.
The collaboration with Irama also takes center stage. Having created numerous looks for the artist’s performances, including those at the Sanremo Music Festival, Leonardo has developed a parallel creative path with Irama. This partnership has culminated in the Irama Official Merch™, a project featuring exclusive drops that will accompany the artist’s tour across Italy. For the Lineapelle Designers Edition show, special pieces from this collaboration will be integrated into the main collection, creating a unique dialogue between fashion, music, and art.
Kindness is Punk: The Creative Philosophy
Leonardo describes his creative process with the phrase, “KINDNESS IS PUNK.” For him, each collection is a natural evolution of the last, much like an artist’s album. “Every collection I present is a consequence, a necessity,” he explains. “It couldn’t exist without the previous one because it feeds on an identity that evolves year after year, like a child. This is why I hesitate to call it a brand—brands often focus on the future, treating past collections as outdated. For me, creating new collections is a personal need, not a commercial one.”
A Team of Visionaries
The realization of CRUDELIO FABIOLA was a collaborative effort, bringing together a team of trusted friends and professionals. Designer Bianca Beltramello crafted the prints, stylist Francesco Mautone shaped the looks, and photographer Lorenzo Galli captured the campaign’s visuals. The teaser and backstage videos were handled by Alessio Esposto, while the casting was managed by Gigi and the lookbook by Roberto Autori. Assistant Elena Frasca also played a key role in bringing the collection to life.
In a bold move, Leonardo and Christian Bianconi (Pedsan) explored the intersection of fashion and comfort, creating custom footwear with 3D-made insoles for the models. This innovation ensured that the catwalk presentation was as wearable as it was visually striking.
A Digital-First Experience
In a nod to modernity, LEONARDOVALENTINI will open a QR link on its social channels and website during the show. For one day only, a selection of limited-edition products from the collection will be available for purchase at a special price, offering fans an exclusive opportunity to own a piece of the CRUDELIO FABIOLA story.
Conclusion
LEONARDOVALENTINI’s return to Milan with CRUDELIO FABIOLA is more than a fashion show—it’s a deeply personal narrative, a celebration of collaboration, and a testament to the transformative power of art. Through its fusion of emotion, music, and innovation, the collection invites us to reflect on the beauty that can emerge from pain and the endless possibilities of creative expression.
As Leonardo Valentini continues to redefine the boundaries of fashion, one thing is clear: LEONARDOVALENTINI is not just a brand—it’s a movement, a story, and a journey that evolves with every stitch, every note, and every tear.
PHOTOs CREDITS: LORIS PATRIZI