Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer whose name became synonymous with elegance and red-carpet glamour, has died at his home in Rome aged 93. Famous for his flawless gowns and unwavering belief in beauty, Valentino dressed some of the most powerful and celebrated women in the world for more than half a century.
The Designer Who “Knew What Women Want”
Known universally by his first name, Valentino built a career on timeless glamour rather than provocation. “I know what women want,” he once said. “They want to be beautiful.” His designs reflected that philosophy — refined, romantic and impeccably crafted.
From Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Princess Diana to Julia Roberts and Queen Rania of Jordan, his clients trusted him to make them feel confident and radiant. Valentino’s gowns became red-carpet staples, appearing year after year at the Academy Awards. Julia Roberts wore a vintage Valentino dress when she won her Oscar in 2001, while Cate Blanchett chose a one-shouldered butter-yellow Valentino gown for her 2004 win.
He also designed Jacqueline Kennedy’s lace wedding dress for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968, marking the start of a lifelong friendship. Diana, Princess of Wales, was another devoted admirer, frequently choosing his designs for public appearances.
Signature details such as bows, ruffles, lace and intricate embroidery, paired with his iconic “Valentino red,” defined a look that was unmistakably his.
From Movie Dreams to Fashion Royalty
Born on May 11, 1932, in the northern Italian town of Voghera, Valentino credited his love of cinema for inspiring his path into fashion. He often spoke of being captivated by the glamour of old Hollywood and the perfection of movie stars.
After studying in Milan and Paris, he worked under Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche before launching his own fashion house on Rome’s Via Condotti in 1959. Early supporters included Italian screen legends Sophia Loren and Gina Lollobrigida, along with Hollywood icons Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. Vogue editor Diana Vreeland also played a key role in promoting his early work.
Valentino’s brand endured far beyond fashion’s changing trends, remaining influential well after his retirement in 2008 — a rarity in an industry driven by constant reinvention.
A Life of Beauty, Luxury and Legacy
Always impeccably dressed and famously tanned, Valentino lived much like the elite clientele he dressed. With longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti, he split time between homes in Rome, Paris, New York, London, Capri and Switzerland, traveling with their beloved pugs and entertaining friends such as Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow.
His lifestyle included a 46-metre yacht, a priceless art collection featuring works by Picasso and Miró, and a 17th-century château near Paris surrounded by over a million roses.
Valentino expanded his empire into ready-to-wear, menswear and accessories before selling the brand in 1998 for an estimated $300 million, though he continued designing for another decade. His work has been celebrated in major museum exhibitions and the acclaimed 2008 documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor.
His body will lie in repose at the Valentino Foundation headquarters in Rome on Wednesday and Thursday. The funeral will be held on Friday, January 23, at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome.
