Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian fashion designer known simply as Valentino, passed away peacefully at his home in Rome on January 19, 2026, at the age of 93. Born in Voghera, Italy, in 1932, he co-founded the Valentino fashion house in 1960 and spent over six decades redefining luxury, glamour, and sophistication in the world of high fashion. His passing marks the end of an era for a designer whose creations dressed royalty, Hollywood stars, and global icons, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Renowned for his exquisite haute couture, Valentino mastered bold colors, refined silhouettes, and opulent fabrics that exuded effortless elegance. His signature “Valentino red”—a vibrant, unmistakable hue—became a hallmark of his vision, symbolizing passion and timeless allure. From breathtaking evening gowns to sophisticated tailoring, his designs graced red carpets, royal occasions, and prestigious events, blending impeccable craftsmanship with an innate sense of beauty.
Princess Diana was among his most devoted admirers, famously wearing a striking burgundy velvet and lace dress by Valentino in 1992, an image that captured her enduring style. Hollywood luminaries such as Sharon Stone, Halle Berry, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, who once called him “like a father,” along with Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Campbell, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Pedro Pascal, frequently chose his pieces for major appearances, underscoring his broad and lasting appeal across generations and continents.
After retiring in 2008, Valentino entrusted the creative direction to Pierpaolo Piccioli, under whom the brand flourished, preserving its reputation for imaginative luxury while evolving to captivate new audiences. Valentino’s runway shows during Paris Fashion Week continued to command attention, affirming the house’s ongoing influence in a dynamic fashion landscape.
Beyond garments, Valentino shaped fashion photography, red-carpet aesthetics, and the broader culture of style. As a mentor and inspiration to emerging talents, he proved that artistry, attention to detail, and genuine connections with clients could transcend time. His relationships with muses and wearers were built on trust and mutual admiration, reflecting a designer who crafted not just clothes, but unforgettable moments of grace and confidence.
Valentino Garavani’s journey from his Italian roots to the pinnacle of global fashion was defined by unwavering passion, dedication, and an extraordinary eye for beauty. His legacy endures as a celebration of elegance, haute couture, and the enduring power of timeless design, inspiring the fashion world for generations to come.
