The world of high fashion is in mourning following the death of the legendary Italian couturier, Valentino Garavani, at the age of 93. Known mononymously as Valentino, the designer passed away at his residence in Rome, surrounded by close family and friends.
The End of an Era in Italian Glamour
His foundation confirmed the news on Instagram, stating he was "a true source of light, creativity and vision." The designer's body will lie in state at the foundation's Roman headquarters on Wednesday and Thursday, with a funeral scheduled in the Italian capital for Friday.
Italian Prime Minister, Georgia Meloni, led tributes, calling him an "undisputed master of style and elegance" and an "eternal symbol of Italian high fashion." His career, spanning nearly five decades, defined opulence and attracted a legion of the world's most famous women.
A Signature in Scarlet and a Star-Studded Clientele
Founded in 1959, the House of Valentino quickly became synonymous with sophisticated glamour. His iconic "Valentino Red" – a specific shade between crimson and poppy officially recognised by Pantone – became his signature from his very first collection, which featured the 'Fiesta' red tulle dress.
His client list read like a who's who of 20th-century icons:
- Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor were early devotees.
- Jackie Kennedy wore his designs throughout the 1960s and chose a Valentino gown for her 1968 wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
- Princess Diana frequently wore his creations after her divorce.
- Stars from Julia Roberts to Penélope Cruz have graced red carpets in his gowns.
He dressed Monica Vitti for the 1960 film La Notte and his final haute couture show in 2007 was a stunning finale where every model wore a version of his signature red dress.
From Opera Inspiration to Global Empire
Born in 1932 in Voghera, near Milan, Valentino credited a childhood visit to see Carmen at the opera for his lifelong passion for red. After apprenticeships in Paris with Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche, he launched his label in 1959 with family backing.
A pivotal meeting with Giancarlo Giammetti in 1960 forged both a romantic and business partnership that saved the company and propelled it to global fame. Though their personal relationship ended in 1972, their professional bond ensured the brand's success. They sold the Valentino company in 1998 for approximately $300 million. It is now owned by Mayhoola, with Kering holding a 30% stake.
His extravagant life with Giammetti, complete with private jets and multiple homes, was documented in the 2008 film Valentino: The Last Emperor. Following his 2007 retirement, creative direction passed through several hands, most recently to former Gucci designer Alessandro Michele in 2024.
Valentino Garavani's legacy is one of unwavering dedication to beauty, craftsmanship, and a specific, powerful vision of feminine elegance that will continue to inspire long after his passing.
