Valentino Garavani, the Italian fashion designer whose name became synonymous with luxury, elegance, and red-carpet glamour, has passed away at the age of 93.His foundation announced his death in a statement posted on Instagram, saying the designer passed away peacefully at his home in Rome, surrounded by family.
For more than four decades, Valentino dressed some of the most famous women in the world and built one of fashion’s most recognisable brands.
Long before fashion houses became global empires, Valentino had already turned his first name into a symbol of status and refinement.
Born in 1932 in Voghera, a town in northern Italy, Valentino showed an early interest in fashion. He trained in Paris, working in haute couture ateliers where he learned the discipline and craftsmanship that would later define his work.
In 1959, he returned to Italy and founded his fashion house in Rome.
It did not take long for Valentino to stand out. He became especially known for his red gowns, made in a rich, striking shade that would later be known simply as “Valentino red.” The colour became his signature and one of the most recognisable elements of his brand.
A turning point in his career came in 1960 when he met Giancarlo Giammetti, who became his business partner.
Together, they expanded Valentino from a small Roman fashion house into an international luxury brand. Their partnership shaped the business side of the label and helped secure its global success.
Valentino’s rise was closely tied to Hollywood and high society. One of his earliest famous clients was Elizabeth Taylor, whom he met while she was filming Cleopatra in Rome. Her support helped introduce his designs to an international audience.
Over the years, Valentino dressed a long list of celebrities and public figures, many of whom became closely associated with his brand.
Jacqueline Kennedy wore a Valentino gown when she married Aristotle Onassis in 1968. Audrey Hepburn, Joan Collins and Queen Paola of Belgium were also among his early admirers.
As fashion evolved, Valentino remained relevant. In the 1970s, he spent much of his time in New York, moving within elite creative circles that included artist Andy Warhol and fashion editor Diana Vreeland.
He became a favourite of supermodels such as Naomi Campbell and Claudia Schiffer. His designs were a constant presence on major red carpets.
Jennifer Lopez appeared in one of his pastel designs at the Academy Awards in 2003, while Cate Blanchett wore a bright yellow Valentino gown when she won in 2005.
Anne Hathaway also walked the Oscars red carpet in a Valentino couture dress in 2011, accompanied by the designer himself.
Outside fashion, Valentino was known for his polished appearance, love of art and deep affection for his dogs.
He owned several homes across Europe and the United States and was particularly fond of his historic château outside Paris.
Despite his fame, he often spoke openly about valuing his personal life more than the industry.
In 1998, Valentino sold his company for about $300 million but continued working until his retirement in 2008.
His final show in Paris was attended by celebrities, designers and close friends, marking the end of one of the longest and most influential careers in fashion.
After his retirement, the Valentino brand continued under new creative leadership, adapting to changing fashion trends while still drawing from the legacy he created.
