The fashion world mourns the loss of an icon. Italian designer Valentino Garavani has died at the age of 91. His foundation confirmed the news through an official statement posted on Instagram.
A Peaceful Farewell in Rome
Valentino Garavani passed away peacefully at his residence in Rome. His family surrounded him with love during his final moments. The designer, known simply as Valentino throughout his career, built one of the world's most recognizable luxury fashion houses.
From Northern Italy to Global Fame
Born in Voghera in northern Italy, Valentino began his fashion journey in Paris couture houses. He returned to Italy and launched his own label in Rome in 1959. The designer quickly developed a signature style rooted in elegance and drama.
His most famous creation became the rich scarlet gowns that defined his aesthetic. The fashion industry universally recognized this hue as "Valentino red." This distinctive color became synonymous with luxury and sophistication across the globe.
Dressing Generations of Icons
Valentino's career flourished through his relationships with influential women. Elizabeth Taylor became one of his earliest and most important clients during the early 1960s. She discovered his work while filming Cleopatra in Rome.
His clientele soon expanded to include royalty and Hollywood legends. Begum Aga Khan, Queen Paola of Belgium, Audrey Hepburn, and Joan Collins all wore his designs. Jacqueline Kennedy chose a Valentino gown for her 1968 wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
Red Carpet Dominance
Valentino's creations defined red carpet moments for decades. Jane Fonda wore a beaded Valentino gown when accepting an Oscar for her father in 1981. Julia Roberts selected a vintage black-and-white Valentino dress for the 2001 Academy Awards.
Jennifer Lopez made headlines in a pastel mint caftan-style gown in 2003. Cate Blanchett dazzled in sunshine yellow Valentino in 2005. Both Roberts and Blanchett won Oscars in those memorable years.
Anne Hathaway walked the 2011 Oscars red carpet in an ornate 2002 Valentino creation. The designer himself accompanied her that evening. More recently, stars like Zendaya and Hathaway continued to wear the brand, proving its enduring relevance.
Building a Fashion Empire
A crucial partnership shaped Valentino's business success. He met Giancarlo Giammetti in 1960 when Giammetti was studying architecture. Their relationship evolved into both a romantic partnership lasting twelve years and a powerful business alliance.
Together they transformed Valentino SpA into a global luxury powerhouse. The brand expanded beyond couture into ready-to-wear collections, accessories, and fragrances. Their vision created a comprehensive fashion empire that reached customers worldwide.
Retirement and Lasting Legacy
Valentino announced his retirement in early 2008 following his final haute couture show in Paris. He stepped away from day-to-day design responsibilities but left behind a brand valued in the billions of dollars.
According to Vanity Fair, Valentino and Giammetti built an impressive international property portfolio. Their homes span multiple countries, including properties in London's Holland Park and the Château de Wideville near Paris.
Celebrity Net Worth estimates Valentino Garavani's personal wealth at approximately $1.5 billion. This figure reflects not just commercial success but a creative legacy that reshaped modern couture. His influence continues through the fashion house that bears his name and the iconic "Valentino red" that will forever symbolize luxury fashion.
