Valentino Garavani, the renowned Italian fashion designer, has passed away at 93 in Rome, surrounded by his family as confirmed by Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti. His death announcement revealed that he will lie in state at PM23 in Piazza Mignanelli 23 before his funeral at Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri on Friday, January 23.
Valentino established his iconic fashion house in 1959, making him the longest-serving couturier of the 20th and 21st centuries. In 1960, he formed a lasting partnership with Giancarlo Giammetti, both in business and romance for over a decade.
Known for his exquisite designs, Valentino dressed numerous celebrities, including Diana, Princess of Wales, Jennifer Lopez, Joan Collins, Andy Warhol, Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer, and Julia Roberts. Supermodel Naomi described him as “the last maestro,” emphasizing the exquisite craftsmanship of his creations.
Valentino’s creations have graced recent stars like Zendaya and Carey Mulligan, and he notably designed wedding gowns for Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor. His enduring friendship and professional collaboration with Jackie Kennedy were marked by mutual admiration for each other’s style sensibilities.
Valentino’s designs were celebrated for their ability to empower women and make them feel beautiful. His unique vision for fashion stemmed from his early dreams of elegance and sophistication, leading him to pursue a career in design after studying in Paris and working with renowned fashion houses.
Following his passing, the fashion world mourned the loss of a legend, with tributes pouring in on social media. Anna Wintour of Vogue fondly remembered Valentino as a delightful and generous host, reflecting on his enduring impact on the fashion industry.
Valentino’s legacy as an unparalleled fashion icon will forever be cherished, marking the end of an era in the global fashion landscape.