Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian couturier, has died at the age of 93. He was the last of the greats from the 20th Century’s Golden Era of couture, which included the likes of Dior, Lagerfeld, Balenciaga, Givenchy and Saint Laurent, to pass away.
His death follows on shortly after that of another Italian fashion legend Giorgio Armani in September of last year at the age of 91.
While Armani was known for his restrained designs focused on tailoring – with shades of navy blue and beige being a signature – Valentino’s designs were altogether more glamorous and feminine. Valentino Red was his signature shade, while ruffles, embroidery, bows and polka dots featured strongly, however in Valentino’s hands these were always executed with utmost elegance.
In a statement the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation confirmed the designer had passed away peacefully at his Roman home “surrounded by the love of his family”. Valentino will lie in state at Piazza Mignanelli between 21 and 22 January before a funeral is help at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs.
Valentino was born in 1932 and moved to Paris to study at the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture at the age of just 17.
He worked with some of the industry greats including Christobal Balenciaga, Jacques Fath and Guy Laroche before he founded his house in 1960. He went on some of the most famous women on the planet including Jackie Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor and Julia Roberts to name just a few.
Valentino showed his final collection for his house in 2007 when all the models wore red in the finale. He was awarded with the outstanding achievement aware at The Fashion Awards in London in 2023.
His house lives on to this day, majority owned by Qatar’s luxury investment group Mayhoola for Investments with Gucci owner Kering holding a minority stake. In more recent years the brand has been most famous for its shoes and accessories bearing the famous Rock Studs. Alessandro Michele, formerly of Gucci, is currently head designer.