The fashion world is in mourning following the death of the iconic Italian couturier Valentino Garavani. The designer, known universally by his first name, passed away on Monday 19 January 2026 at his home in Rome, surrounded by loved ones. He was 93.
A Legacy of Red and Romance
Valentino, who co-founded his eponymous luxury brand in the 1960s with business partner Giancarlo Giammetti, revolutionised high fashion. He became globally renowned for his signature shade of "Valentino Red" and his exquisite use of bows, ruffles, and lace. His clientele read like a who's who of high society, dressing figures such as Diana, Princess of Wales, Elizabeth Taylor, and former US first lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.
The official announcement of his passing was made via a joint statement on his and his foundation's Instagram pages. Tributes have since flooded in from celebrities, fellow designers, and world leaders, all honouring the man who defined elegance for generations.
Stars Pay Emotional Tributes
Actress Gwyneth Paltrow, a close friend and muse, led the heartfelt remembrances. She shared on Instagram that the news felt like "the end of an era". Recalling personal moments, she wrote: "I loved how he always pestered me to 'at least wear a little mascara' when I came to dinner... He will be deeply missed." Paltrow wore Valentino for her 2018 wedding and the 2013 Met Gala.
Fashion designer Donatella Versace called him a "true maestro", while model Cindy Crawford said she was "heartbroken" and grateful for their years of collaboration. Sarah Jessica Parker praised his "decadent generosity", and the Valentino brand itself pledged to preserve his "creative, cultural, and human heritage".
An Enduring Influence on Fashion and Film
Valentino's influence extended far beyond the atelier, becoming a red-carpet staple. His designs were worn by a constellation of Hollywood stars at pivotal moments. Julia Roberts memorably wore a vintage black and white Valentino gown when she won the Best Actress Oscar for Erin Brockovich in 2001. Cate Blanchett chose a buttermilk yellow gown for her 2005 Oscar win for The Aviator.
His former creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli, shared an emotional tribute, calling Valentino his mentor. "You taught me that fashion is joy," he wrote, "though a profoundly serious kind of joy." Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as the "undisputed master of style and elegance" and an "eternal symbol of Italian high fashion".
Valentino's career was crowned with the French Legion d'honneur in 2006. He retired in 2007 after a lavish 45th-anniversary celebration in Rome. The designer will lie in state at his foundation's headquarters on Piazza Mignanelli on January 21 and 22. His funeral will be held at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs in Rome on Friday, January 23.
