Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer whose name became synonymous with elegance, glamour, and the iconic “Valentino red,” has died at his home in Rome. Revered for decades by royals, film stars, and first ladies, he was celebrated for gowns that combined sophistication with timeless femininity.
The Designer Who Knew What Women Wanted
Known simply as Valentino, he famously said, “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful.” His creations became the ultimate choice for red-carpet events, with flawless gowns gracing the Academy Awards, weddings, and state occasions alike. From Julia Roberts’ vintage black-and-white gown in 2001 to Cate Blanchett’s butter-yellow silk Oscar dress in 2004, his work helped define countless iconic moments.
Valentino’s influence extended to royalty, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis—whose lace wedding dress he designed for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis—and Princess Diana. Signature details such as bows, ruffles, lace, and embroidery made his dresses both feminine and timeless, cementing his reputation as the go-to designer for elegance and confidence.
From Cinema-Loving Boy to Fashion Legend
Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, northern Italy, Valentino credited his love of film for inspiring his fascination with beauty and style. After studying in Milan and Paris, he honed his craft with designers Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche before launching his own house on Rome’s Via Condotti in 1959. Early fans included Gina Lollobrigida, Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, and Audrey Hepburn, with Vogue editor Diana Vreeland providing crucial support to his budding career.
Over nearly five decades, Valentino maintained relevance and prestige, retiring in 2008 but leaving a brand that expanded into ready-to-wear, menswear, and accessories. His legacy was celebrated through museum retrospectives and the 2008 documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor.
A Life of Glamour and Lasting Influence
Valentino’s life mirrored the glamour of his creations. Alongside longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti, he divided his time between homes in Rome, Paris, New York, London, Capri, and Gstaad, Switzerland, traveling with their pugs and entertaining celebrities including Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow. His art collection and 17th-century Parisian chateau, with its million-rose garden, reflected a lifelong devotion to beauty.
Valentino’s body will lie in repose at the 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, Piazza della Repubblica, Rome.
