Accademia Costume & Moda Students Invited by Maison Valentino to the Private Exhibition of the Haute Couture Collection “Specula Mundi”

Rome once again confirms its role as one of the most important creative centres in the international fashion landscape. On the occasion of the FW 26/27 show “Interferenze”, taking place in Rome on 12 March, Maison Valentino organised a series of special initiatives in the Italian capital, including a private exhibition of the Haute Couture collection “Specula Mundi” by Creative Director and ACM alumnus Alessandro Michele, originally presented in Paris in January 2026.

Among the guests invited to this exclusive event were the students from the Master in Alta Moda, Fashion Design at Accademia Costume & Moda, who had the opportunity to take part in a unique experience at Palazzo Altieri, in the heart of Rome.

A privileged access to the world of Haute Couture

The students were welcomed by the Valentino team inside the historic spaces of Palazzo Altieri, where they had the extraordinary opportunity to closely explore the collection “Specula Mundi”, the second Haute Couture collection designed by Alessandro Michele for the Maison.

During the visit, students were able to observe and touch the garments up close, discovering the technical complexity, material research and exceptional craftsmanship that define the work carried out in the ateliers of one of the most influential couture houses in the world.

It was an invaluable learning moment, allowing students to engage directly with the creative and production processes behind Haute Couture, from the initial concept to the final garment.

Understanding the creative process behind couture

Throughout the visit, the Valentino team guided the students through the different stages involved in creating a Haute Couture collection: from the iconographic and cultural research that informs the creative concept, to the development of silhouettes and the intricate craftsmanship that takes shape within the Maison’s ateliers.

A rare opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the level of experimentation, precision and artisanal excellence that defines contemporary couture.

For many students, the experience held an additional meaning: Alessandro Michele himself is an alumnus of Accademia Costume & Moda, and today serves as Creative Director of one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world.

A unique opportunity for our students

Participation in this private exhibition represents an exceptional privilege: Accademia Costume & Moda was the only school in the world invited by Maison Valentino to attend this exclusive event.

Experiences such as this highlight the strong connection between Accademia Costume & Moda and the international fashion industry, offering students meaningful opportunities to engage directly with some of the most prestigious realities of the sector.

Being able to witness the work of a Haute Couture Maison up close, interact with the professionals behind it and understand the creative journey behind a collection is an essential part of the education of future fashion designers.

Studying at the heart of the fashion industry

Initiatives such as the one organised by Maison Valentino demonstrate the importance of studying in an environment where education, industry and fashion culture constantly intersect.

For students at Accademia Costume & Moda, experiences like this are not only inspiring moments, but also an integral part of a learning journey designed to shape the next generation of international fashion creatives.

And, as the story of Alessandro Michele shows, the path towards the world’s leading fashion houses can begin right here.