Valentino’s recent Haute Couture show in Paris sparked online debate after IVE members Rei and Liz debuted a striking footwear design that drew both praise and criticism. The K-pop duo, newly appointed brand ambassadors for the Italian luxury house, wore shoes featuring a visual illusion effect that some observers likened to “pigs trotters,” according to online commentary reported by Koreaboo.
The appointment of Rei and Liz as Valentino brand ambassadors was officially announced on January 28, 2026, with the pair immediately showcasing Valentino designs, including their airport attire and the looks worn at the Paris fashion show, as detailed by Soompi. Valentino’s official Instagram account also confirmed the ambassadorship on January 29, 2026, celebrating the partnership with the IVE members.
While the overall styling of Rei and Liz was generally well-received, the shoes became a focal point of discussion. The unique design, intended to be fashion-forward, was described as “uncanny” and “unsettling” by some online users, with the comparison to animal anatomy proving particularly divisive. Some commenters questioned the stylist’s choice, suggesting the polarizing footwear detracted from the members’ appearance.
Despite the mixed reactions, the shoes generated significant attention for Rei and Liz, quickly making them a topic of conversation. The duo attended the Specula Mundi Valentino Haute Couture 2026 collection show last Wednesday, wearing looks from the 2026 spring and summer Fireflies collection. Rei paired a skirt with a blouse, while Liz wore an ivory outfit accented with a bow, as reported by the Korea Joongang Daily.
“We are incredibly delighted and grateful to be appointed as official ambassadors for Maison Valentino,” Rei and Liz stated, according to the Korea Joongang Daily. “It was an honor and a truly special experience to attend the two fashion shows held in Paris recently. We were completely captivated by the message and beauty conveyed through each collection, and we are very much looking forward to what lies ahead.”
IVE is scheduled to release the single “Bang Bang” on February 9, followed by their second full-length album “Revive+” on February 23. The group will continue their “Show What I Am” tour in April, with performances planned in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Osaka, Japan.
Leave a Reply