Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian fashion designer whose name became synonymous with timeless glamour, has died at his home in Rome at the age of 93. Revered for his exquisite gowns and unmistakable sense of elegance, Valentino dressed generations of the world’s most powerful and glamorous women, earning his reputation as fashion’s ultimate red-carpet master.
A Master of Beauty and Confidence
Known simply as Valentino, the designer famously said he “knew what women want,” and his work reflected that belief. His creations were never about shock value or rebellion, but about refinement, beauty and confidence. From Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Princess Diana to Julia Roberts and Queen Rania of Jordan, his clients trusted him to make them feel their absolute best.
His designs became a staple at the Academy Awards and other major ceremonies. Julia Roberts’ vintage Valentino gown at the 2001 Oscars and Cate Blanchett’s butter-yellow silk dress in 2004 remain among the most iconic red-carpet looks of all time. Jacqueline Kennedy’s lace wedding dress for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968 further cemented Valentino’s place in fashion history.
Signature elements such as bows, lace, ruffles, embroidery and, above all, the distinctive “Valentino red” defined a style that was unmistakably feminine and effortlessly luxurious.
From Cinema Dreams to Fashion Royalty
Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, northern Italy, Valentino traced his passion for fashion back to a childhood obsession with cinema and movie stars. After studying in Milan and Paris, he honed his craft working for renowned designers Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche before opening his own fashion house in Rome in 1959.
His talent quickly attracted attention from Italian film icons like Sophia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida, as well as Hollywood legends including Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. Vogue editor Diana Vreeland became an early supporter, helping propel Valentino onto the international stage.
Even after retiring from active design work in 2008, the Valentino brand continued to thrive, a testament to the strength and longevity of his vision.
A Life of Luxury and Lasting Legacy
Valentino lived much like the elite clientele he dressed. Alongside longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti, he moved between homes in Rome, Paris, New York, London, Capri and Switzerland, traveled with beloved pugs, and entertained close friends such as Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. His art collection, historic chateau near Paris and famed rose gardens reflected a life devoted to beauty in all its forms.
The designer sold the Valentino label in 1998 for an estimated $300 million but remained creatively involved for another decade. His career was celebrated through major museum exhibitions and the acclaimed 2008 documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor, which captured the emotional close of his fashion journey.
Valentino’s body will lie in repose at his foundation’s headquarters in Rome on Wednesday and Thursday. His funeral will take place on Friday, January 23, at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome.
