Just yesterday Valentino gave his notice for his retirement from the fashion industry, yet today we know his legacy will live on through the youthful eyes of former Gucci Designer, Alessandra Facchinetti. As we prepare ourselves to see Valentino go, we can look forward to the future with excitement as Facchinetti readies herself to interpret Valentino's elegant style in her first collection through the Valentino brand in March 2008.

Facchinietti had been a front-runner for the position since early Spring of this year and now that she has been officially named as successor, she will be able to channel Valentino's panache into her fashion design and lean on Valentino's accessories designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, who will retain their current positions, if necessary.

However, the question that may enter into everyone's minds may be whether or not she can pull it off. She is definitely a talented fashion designer, but her departure from Gucci only two months after succeeding Tom Ford, may have everyone wondering if she will be able to maintain longevity at the House of Valentino and if her interpretation of Valentino's core values in design will hold true and resonate with its audience.

I, for one, look forward to seeing what she has in store for us. What do you think?