The fashion world is in mourning following the death of iconic Italian designer Valentino Garavani, who passed away at the age of 93. The news was confirmed on Monday, 19 January 2026, via a statement on his official and foundation Instagram pages.
Valentino died at his home in Rome, surrounded by close family and friends. Universally known by his first name, he co-founded the eponymous luxury label in the 1960s with business partner Giancarlo Giammetti, revolutionising haute couture.
A Legacy of Red Carpet Glamour
Valentino's career was defined by his impeccable craftsmanship and a distinct aesthetic. He became famous for his signature "Valentino Red", along with lavish use of bows, ruffles, and lace. His clientele read like a who's who of high society and Hollywood royalty.
He dressed some of the most celebrated women of the 20th century, including Diana, Princess of Wales, Audrey Hepburn, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. His gowns remained red carpet staples for stars like Julia Roberts, who wore a vintage Valentino dress when she won the Best Actress Oscar in 2001 for Erin Brockovich.
Heartfelt Tributes from the Fashion World
Following the announcement, an outpouring of grief and admiration came from celebrities and industry figures worldwide. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow, a long-time friend and client, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram.
"I was so lucky to know and love Valentino – to know the real man, in private," she wrote. "This feels like the end of an era. He will be deeply missed... Rest in peace, Vava." 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 described him as a "true master of his craft". His former creative director, Pierpaolo Piccioli, posted a lengthy homage, calling Valentino his mentor.
A Final Farewell in Rome
The designer's influence was formally recognised in 2006 when he received France's Legion d'honneur. He retired in 2007 after a spectacular 45th-anniversary celebration in Rome.
Valentino will lie in state at the Valentino Foundation's headquarters on Piazza Mignanelli on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 January. His funeral is scheduled for Friday 23 January at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs in Rome's Piazza della Repubblica.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was among the first to pay tribute, calling him the "undisputed master of style and elegance" and an "eternal symbol of Italian high fashion". The house of Valentino also released a statement, vowing to preserve the "creative, cultural, and human heritage" he built.
