Feel like doing a little impulse shopping today?  Well then how about purchasing the extremely luxurious and well respected Valentino which is up for sale and may go for as much as $852 million.  Go on treat yourself! 

After drawing rave reviews for couture, the Italian label is in fact now allegedly preparing for a sale to an unidentified buyer.  Turns out this is a positive step for the brand as the Italian house, which was purchased in 2007 by the Permira private equity group, returned to profit in 2011; co-creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli have gradually yet steadily gained critical acclaim for their beautiful and classic collections which tend to be fairly modern but also have that old fashioned, sophisticated, ladylike feel and instantly recognizable Valentino twist.   

Although the brand lost money in 2009, its revenues increased by 18% in 2011.  Well done Valentino!   “Valentino has seen increasing interest from a number of potential buyers,” Stefano Sassi, chief executive officer of Valentino has stated. “The outstanding work and stylistic vision of creative directors Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli and the constant growth of [the] company’s results have generated great attention towards the brand.”

A spokesperson for the Valentino Fashion Group has confirmed that it has indeed granted exclusive rights to a “single party” to discuss a purchase, so this could all happen by the end of July. While rumors are flying and word has it that the single party in question may in fact be the royal family of Qatar, Valentino has not confirmed this.  Interestingly, Puig was apparently also interested in purchasing Valentino at one point.

As reported, the brand reportedly has an astonishing price tag of $852 million at current exchange, so I think I’ll have to pass on this purchase but maybe next time.