There are certain things that just stick in a person’s mind, and for whatever reason, it is nearly impossible to stop thinking about it. Valentino’s Spring/Summer 2017 collection is one of those memorable things, although this time, the reasons are obvious. It was one of the more delicate collections at this fall’s Paris Fashion week, brimming with flowy fabrics that appeared lighter than air, and had a touch of whimsy.

Pierpaolo Piccioli, Valentino’s creative director, has simply outdone himself, proving his capabilities as the sole director, since Maria Grazia Chiuri’s exit in July. The collection debuted in Paris on Oct. 2 at the Hotel Salomon de Rothschild.

I have had some issues with Valentino in the past, due to their ads, which although featured lovely clothes, depicted various forms of cultural appropriation, including Caucasian models wearing traditional African hairstyles. However, this collection contained nothing problematic, and was just simply breathtaking.

On the prestigious fashion house’s website, the collection is headed with a few sentences about rewriting history but keeping the essence of it, which is exactly what this collection does. There are definitely elements from the 1920s, the 1940s, and many other iconic fashion moments from the past. However, it is not simply recreating the past, it is rewriting it. While staying true to Valentino’s past, this collection was able to introduce new ideas, with the two blending seamlessly.

Although other colors were used, the soft pinks and dark, velvety reds stand out. Every ensemble included a tiny over the shoulder compact, along with a small purse. The embroidery was stunning, and the heart motifs found throughout the collection really enforce the theme of romanticism and rewriting the past. The models wore little to no makeup, and had their hair pulled back loosely, which helped to emphasize the beauty of the clothes.

A truly good collection should make viewers daydream and inspire their imagination, and that is exactly what Valentino did for me.