Iconic Designer Valentino Garavani Passes Away at 93 in Rome

Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian fashion designer renowned for his glamorous gowns, has died at the age of 93 at his home in Rome. His foundation confirmed the news on January 19, 2026, stating that he was “a true source of light, creativity and vision” for the fashion world.

The designer’s body will be available for public viewing at the foundation’s headquarters in Rome on January 21 and 22. A funeral service is scheduled for January 23 at the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, located in Piazza della Repubblica.

Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Italy, Valentino was celebrated for his signature shade of red, widely known as “Valentino red.” His creations adorned numerous high-profile figures, including former First Lady Jackie Kennedy Onassis and Oscar-winning actress Julia Roberts. Valentino once remarked, “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful,” encapsulating his commitment to enhancing femininity through fashion.

Valentino’s career spanned nearly five decades, beginning in the 1960s and culminating in his retirement in 2008. His designs, characterized by luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and bold silhouettes, dominated the red carpet at prestigious events. Notably, Julia Roberts wore a vintage black and white Valentino gown when she accepted her Best Actress award at the Academy Awards in 2001.

A Legacy of Glamour and Influence

Valentino’s influence extended beyond Hollywood. He developed close relationships with many royal figures, including Queen Rania of Jordan and Diana, Princess of Wales. His gowns were synonymous with elegance and sophistication, making him a favorite among A-list celebrities. The designer’s creations often featured delicate bows, ruffles, and lace, enhancing the beauty of the women who wore them.

His early days in fashion were marked by a deep passion for cinema, which he credited with inspiring his career. After studying in Milan and Paris, he worked for prominent designers such as Jean Desses and Guy Laroche before establishing his own label on Rome’s Via Condotti in 1959. Valentino’s partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, played a crucial role in the business side of the brand, allowing Valentino to focus on design.

Despite early financial challenges, the brand gained traction, attracting admirers like Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. Valentino’s artistry caught the attention of influential figures, including Diana Vreeland, editor-in-chief of American Vogue, who supported his ascent in the fashion industry.

In 1998, Valentino sold a majority stake in his brand to an Italian holding company for an estimated $300 million, retaining a design role for another decade. He celebrated 45 years in fashion with an extravagant event in Rome in 2007, culminating in a lavish ball at the Villa Borghese gallery.

Transition and Continued Influence

After retiring, Valentino’s legacy continued under the leadership of designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, who maintained the brand’s reputation for luxury. Chiuri left to become the head designer at Dior in 2016, while Piccioli led Valentino through a period of remarkable success, launching the popular Rockstud pump and introducing a new signature color, Pink PP.

In 2024, Piccioli departed from Valentino and was succeeded by Alessandro Michele, known for his romantic and genderless designs at Gucci. Valentino is currently owned by Mayhoola, a Qatari investment group that holds a 70% stake, while Kering, the French luxury conglomerate, owns the remaining 30% with an option for full control in the coming years.

Valentino’s work has been the subject of several retrospectives, including a notable exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. His life and career were also chronicled in the 2008 documentary “Valentino: The Last Emperor,” which highlighted his final years in the fashion industry. In 2011, Valentino and Giammetti launched a “virtual museum,” providing fans access to around 300 of his iconic pieces.

Valentino Garavani leaves behind a legacy of elegance and creativity, having shaped the world of fashion for generations. His designs continue to inspire and reflect the timeless pursuit of beauty in style.