Valentino Garavani, Italian Fashion Legend, Dies at 93

Valentino Garavani — universally known simply as Valentino — has died at the age of 93 at his home in Rome, the Valentino Garavani Foundation announced on Monday, January 19, 2026. The legendary designer’s passing marks the end of an extraordinary career that helped define 20th-century haute couture and left a lasting imprint on international fashion.

Valentino was surrounded by loved ones at the time of his death, according to the official statement posted by his foundation. His life and work were celebrated across the fashion world, with tributes pouring in from designers, celebrities, and political figures alike.

Valentino: A Life Dedicated to Beauty, Elegance, and Haute Couture

Born Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Lombardy, Italy, Valentino’s passion for beauty and elegance was evident from an early age. He studied fashion in Milan and Paris, working with renowned couturiers such as Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche before launching his own label.

Moreover, in 1959, Valentino opened his fashion house on Rome’s Via Condotti — a launchpad for a career that would span nearly five decades and elevate Italian couture onto the world stage. He quickly became known for designs that blended refined craftsmanship with romance, glamour, and timeless style.

His creations were adored by royalty, first ladies, and Hollywood royalty alike — from Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, and Princess Diana to modern stars like Julia Roberts and Cate Blanchett, who frequently wore his gowns on the red carpet.

The Signature of “Valentino Red” and Craftsmanship

Additionally, one of the most enduring symbols of Valentino’s influence is “Valentino red” — a rich, crimson hue that became synonymous with his brand and an emblem of glamour worldwide. Introduced in 1959, the bold color became a hallmark of his eveningwear and bridal collections.

Furthermore, Valentino’s work was rooted in meticulous craftsmanship: handcrafted lace, delicate embroidery, sumptuous chiffon, feather-light fabrics, and ornate embellishments — each piece designed to make the wearer feel elegant and confident. His philosophy was simple yet profound: fashion should empower, flatter, and elevate.

A Global Fashion House and Cultural Influence

Valentino wasn’t just a designer — he was a cultural institution. After nearly 50 years at the helm of his eponymous house, he retired in 2008, leaving behind a global luxury empire that included haute couture, ready-to-wear collections, menswear, accessories, and fragrances.

Under subsequent creative directors, and with backing from major luxury groups and investors, Maison Valentino continued to thrive — blending heritage with contemporary relevance while honoring Valentino’s original vision of beauty and modern romance.

Valentino’s legacy extended beyond fashion: he was a patron of the arts, a beloved figure in Rome’s cultural scene, and a mentor to countless designers and creatives who saw in him a model of refinement and personal authenticity.

Tributes and Legacy

Tributes poured in immediately after the news broke. Celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Cindy Crawford shared heartfelt messages recalling Valentino’s warmth, generosity, and lifelong commitment to beauty and craftsmanship. Industry peers like Donatella Versace and designers worldwide praised his impact on fashion and personal inspiration.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also honored Valentino, describing him as an enduring symbol of Italian style and elegance on the global stage — a sentiment echoed by fashion critics and historians who view his contributions as foundational to modern couture.

Moreover, Valentino’s body will lie in state at the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation in Rome on Wednesday and Thursday, with a funeral scheduled for Friday at the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, offering friends, colleagues, and admirers a chance to say goodbye and pay respects.

An Era Ends, a Legacy Continues

Valentino’s death is widely regarded as the close of a remarkable chapter in haute couture — the passing of one of the last fashion icons whose work bridged old-world craftsmanship and modern global luxury. Additionally, he was often called fashion’s “emperor,” a titan in a world defined by trend and change, yet his creations were rooted in timeless elegance.

His influence will continue through his designs, the Maison Valentino brand, and the countless women and men around the world who have felt more confident, beautiful, and inspired by his vision. As the fashion world mourns, Valentino’s legacy of elegance, innovation, and artistry stands as a testament to a life devoted to the transformative power of design.

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