Fun in the sun was the theme of the evening at Nikki Midtown last week when R.E.D. Valentino showed off its spring collection. Designed to target a younger client than the typical Valentino customer, R.E.D. was loaded with denim, which lent a casual attitude to the show, as did fluid, flowery ensembles in whites, blues, and greens. A lavender silk knee-length slip dress with ivory lace trim and a ruffle around the bottom conveyed romantic notions.

Guys strolled down the runway in khakis and sandals, matched in a few cases with deep gray sweaters marked with ivory and green. A men’s dark-camel bomber jacket hinted at military inspirations. Earthy colors like tans and creams were interlaced with tropical aquas and greens. The presentation ended with a twist, however, when a deep-red flowing chiffon gown with gathered material at the bust and a studded brooch in the cleavage took center stage. It was, perhaps, the only piece that had the glamour Valentino is known for.

Taken as a whole, the R.E.D. Valentino collection was a far cry from the designer’s typical opulent style. Hosted in the nightclub’s beach-themed space – with white lounge-like chairs and sexy cabana boys and girls serving “Valentinis” – the show looked and felt like a sunny getaway.