The world of high fashion is in mourning following the death of Italian designer Valentino Garavani at the age of 93. The founder of the iconic Valentino fashion house passed away on Monday, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Rome.
A Life in Fashion and a Legacy in Red
His passing was confirmed by a statement from the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation, posted to its official Instagram account. The designer, universally known by his first name, was born in Voghera, Lombardy, in 1932. After studying fashion in Paris, he co-founded his legendary fashion house with business partner Giancarlo Giammetti in 1960.
Valentino's influence on the industry was profound and enduring, largely defined by his signature "Valentino Red" shade. His clientele read like a who's who of the 20th century's most glamorous figures. He dressed royalty, including Diana, Princess of Wales, and Princess Grace of Monaco. First ladies, most notably Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, were also devoted clients; she chose Valentino to create the lace gown for her 1968 wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
From Hollywood's Red Carpets to Global Recognition
Hollywood's brightest stars were consistently drawn to his designs. His gowns became red carpet staples, worn by icons from Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren to more contemporary actresses. Julia Roberts memorably wore a vintage black and white Valentino dress when she won the Best Actress Oscar for Erin Brockovich in 2001. Cate Blanchett chose a buttermilk yellow Valentino creation for the 2005 Academy Awards, where she won Best Supporting Actress for The Aviator.
His contributions were formally recognised in 2006 when he was awarded France's highest honour, the Legion d'honneur. Valentino announced his retirement in 2007, following an extravagant three-day celebration in Rome marking his 45-year career. His final years at the helm of his brand were captured in the 2008 documentary, Valentino: The Last Emperor.
Final Farewells and Tributes from the World Stage
According to the foundation's announcement, Valentino will lie in state at its headquarters on Rome's Piazza Mignanelli on Wednesday 21 and Thursday 22 January 2026. A funeral service will then be held on Friday 23 January at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs on Piazza della Repubblica.
Tributes have poured in from global leaders and celebrities. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hailed him as an "undisputed master of style and elegance and eternal symbol of Italian high fashion." She stated that while Italy had lost a legend, his legacy would continue to inspire.
Actress Gwyneth Paltrow, a close friend and client who wore Valentino for her 2018 wedding, shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. She recalled his love for beauty, family, and a good Hollywood story, and his playful chiding for her to "at least wear a little mascara." Paltrow wrote, "This feels like the end of an era. He will be deeply missed... Rest in peace, Vava."
The death of Valentino Garavani marks the closing of a monumental chapter in fashion history, leaving behind a vivid, red-coloured legacy of unparalleled glamour and craftsmanship.
