The world of high fashion and Hollywood cinema converged in Rome this week as luminaries gathered to pay their final respects to the legendary designer Valentino Garavani. The funeral service, held at the historic Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs in Rome's Piazza della Repubblica, followed a two-day public viewing that drew hundreds of admirers to the Valentino foundation's headquarters in the Italian capital.
A Star-Studded Farewell
Among the notable figures seen arriving at the solemn occasion were acclaimed actresses Anne Hathaway and Liz Hurley, whose presence underscored the designer's profound impact on red carpet fashion. Former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, a towering figure in the fashion industry herself, was also photographed attending the service, highlighting the deep respect held for Valentino within fashion's inner circles.
Fashion Royalty in Attendance
The congregation included fellow design icons, with Tom Ford and Donatella Versace present to honour their peer. Their attendance symbolised the collective mourning of the fashion world for a man known universally by his first name. Valentino passed away peacefully at his home in Rome on Monday at the distinguished age of 93, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy.
In the days preceding the funeral, tributes poured in from across the globe. His long-time professional and personal partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, was joined by a constellation of stars in remembering the designer. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow, supermodels Cindy Crawford and Linda Evangelista, and reality television personality Kim Kardashian were among the many famous names who publicly celebrated his life and work.
Dressing the Elite: A Storied Career
Valentino's remarkable career, spanning over half a century, established him as the definitive couturier for high society and royalty. His client list read like a who's who of the twentieth century, including Diana, Princess of Wales, the iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor, and former US first lady Jacqueline "Jackie" Kennedy Onassis. He didn't just dress celebrities; he defined elegance for an era.
The designer transformed the landscape of luxury fashion after co-founding his eponymous brand in the 1960s with Giancarlo Giammetti. He became famous for his masterful use of a specific, vibrant "Valentino Red," as well as his signature romantic details like bows, delicate ruffles, and intricate lace.
The Red Carpet Legacy
His creations became the go-to choice for Hollywood's biggest nights, particularly the Oscars. Sharon Stone and Anne Hathaway have frequently chosen Valentino for pivotal moments. Most famously, Julia Roberts wore a stunning black and white vintage Valentino gown when she won the Best Actress award for Erin Brockovich in 2001, cementing the brand's status in cinematic history.
Similarly, Cate Blanchett selected a beautiful buttermilk yellow Valentino creation for the 2005 Academy Awards, where she secured the Best Supporting Actress trophy for her role in The Aviator. These moments exemplify how Valentino's designs became intertwined with landmark achievements in film.
The public outpouring of respect was evident, with hundreds of people filing past his coffin during the viewing and many more gathering outside the basilica on Friday. The ceremony in Rome marked not just the passing of a designer, but the end of a glorious chapter in the story of fashion, celebrated by the very stars and icons he helped to shine.
