Carmen Marc Valvo
Designer Carmen Marc Valvo is known for unique and unusual detailing and describes his design philosophy as "eveningwear that is modern and sensitive to comfort."
Valvo's professional career began as a ready-to-wear designer for Nina Ricci in Paris and was followed by stint at Christian Dior. Valvo then launched his own label in 1989. His collection has a reputation as a reliable resource for beautiful yet accessible eveningwear.
A consummate traveler, Carmen Marc Valvo gets design inspirations from his impressions of the places he visits.
Meticulous and known for his attention to details, Carmen Marc Valvo is both an artist and craftsman. He is a master tailor who could translate his design ideas into a reality.
He believes that the dress should be able to speak for itself, and beautiful in its own right without the help of accessories. He also like to add unexpected twists in the design, making the clothes interesting and as a result, making its own statement.
The Brand
Carmen Marc Valvo remains a mainstay of democratic glamour. Carmen’s uncompromising attention to detail and flair for flattering every figure makes him a favorite of perhaps the broadest range of women draped in haute couture.
From Queen Latifah to the Princess of Sweden, Carmen designs dreams for women of all sizes - from size 2 to 22. Perhaps that’s why Anika Rose, one of the stars of this seasons hit movie release, Dreamgirls, chose Carmen Marc Valvo to wear to the movie’s recent premier.
The designer is known for his signature shutter pleating which is universally flattering. Valvo understands how to properly showcase a woman's figure and it's not by adding a lot of extra frills and appliques. His work is best when he sticks to a single color, but plays with texture.
Sequins, unique textures - including diaphanous effects with faux nude undershearing reflecting a range of skin tones, are all consistent with his unique ability to fuse classic elegance with his modern take on pure, unadulterated style.
Both chic and sweet - both uptown cool and downtown hot, Carmen proves once again that being a woman, regardless of type or size, can be a sizzling, yet refined experience. That’s something new in great fashion. That’s Carmen Marc Valvo.
Watch video of Carmen Marc Valvo's Fall 08 Fashion Week show