Valentino Garavani bid arrivederci to the fashion with his final runway collection showing his spring 2008 Haute Couture show in Paris at the Musee Rodin yesterday.There were 800 - 900 guests in attendance, but the focus was always going to be on the catwalk we were treated to Valentino’s signature romantic designs. Florals were the main focus in chiffon tea dresses and perfectly tailored suits, and then there were the chic wool coats, cocktail dresses and grand evening gowns.

Everything was dignified and immaculate and treated with pleats, tiers and ruching or lavished in lace or embroidery.

The finale was a sign to be seen, with all 30 models walking out on the catwalk in identical Valentino red gowns, as Valentio appeared to do his lap of honour, blowing kisses into the crowd as many blinked back tears while giving the Italian designer a standing ovation.

“I am not sad. This is my Valentino souvenir to everyone. I have had a wonderful life in fashion, rich in so many memories,” he said.