Italian Fashion Icon Valentino Garavani Passes Away at 93

MILAN (AP) — Valentino Garavani, the celebrated Italian designer known for his iconic high-glamour gowns often adorned in his signature “Valentino red,” has passed away at his home in Rome, as confirmed by his foundation on Monday. He was 93 years old.

The foundation, co-founded by Valentino and his long-time partner Giancarlo Giammetti, expressed deep sorrow in a statement shared on social media, describing Valentino as a continuous source of light, creativity, and vision.

A Legacy Adored by the Elite

Known simply as Valentino, he garnered admiration from multiple generations of royalty, first ladies, and cinema stars. Icons such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Julia Roberts, and Queen Rania of Jordan praised his ability to enhance their beauty and confidence.

“I know what women want,” Valentino famously said. “They want to be beautiful.”

Fashion Transformation and Parisian Influence

Although he was born in Italy and operated his atelier in Rome, Valentino often debuted his collections in Paris and communicated in French with his partner Giammetti, who played a crucial role in the business side of their fashion empire.

Alessandro Michele, the current creative director of Valentino, recently shared his emotional connection to the designer, stating he continues to sense Valentino’s creative spirit as he prepares the next collection, set to debut on March 12 in Rome. Michele described Valentino as a visionary who pushed boundaries and embodied a profound love for beauty.

Tributes from Industry Figures

The reactions to Valentino’s passing were heartfelt and widespread. Pierpaolo Piccioli, another of his successors, expressed his grief with a broken heart emoji on social media. Former supermodel Cindy Crawford shared her sorrow, calling Valentino a true master of his craft.

Messages of condolence also came from the family of the late designer Giorgio Armani, along with Donatella Versace’s tribute, showcasing photographs of Valentino alongside the remark that he would forever be remembered for his artistry.

A Touchstone of Italian Elegance

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni honored Valentino, proclaiming him an indisputable maestro of eternal style and elegance in Italian high fashion.

Valentino’s career, lasting nearly five decades, was marked by few errors in fashion judgment. Known for his classic, opulent designs, he quickly became the choice for A-list celebrities preparing for award shows. His stunning gowns adorned countless Oscars, including the iconic black and white column dress worn by Roberts when she accepted her award in 2001. Cate Blanchett also dazzled in a Valentino gown during her Oscar-winning moment in 2004.

Fashion History and Influential Designs

Among his most memorable creations was the long-sleeved lace dress worn by Jacqueline Kennedy during her wedding to Greek magnate Aristotle Onassis in 1968. The close friendship between Kennedy and Valentino spanned decades, with her frequently donning his pieces. Similarly, Princess Diana was often spotted in Valentino’s elegant designs.

Valentino’s signature style featured not only his distinct shade of red but also included elaborate bows, delicate ruffles, intricate lacework, and exemplary embroidery. His garments were synonymous with femininity and grace, amplifying the undeniable beauty of those who wore them.

A Luxurious Lifestyle Reflected in Fashion

Valentino’s lifestyle often mirrored the glamour of his clientele. His notable possessions included a 152-foot yacht and an impressive art collection that featured works by Picasso and Miro. Additionally, he owned a stunning 17th-century chateau near Paris, surrounded by a garden boasting over a million roses.

Alongside Giammetti, Valentino enjoyed residences in New York, London, Rome, Capri, and Gstaad, often accompanied by their beloved pugs. Their homes welcomed numerous A-list friends, including entertainers like Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow.

A Designer’s Philosophy and Early Life

Valentino was born into an affluent family in Voghera, Italy, on May 11, 1932. A childhood fascination with cinema steered him towards fashion, as he aspired to achieve the remarkable elegance displayed by movie stars.

His formal education in fashion took place in Milan and Paris. Valentino spent the 1950s working for renowned designers such as Jean Desses and Guy Laroche before launching his own brand in 1959 on Rome’s prestigious Via Condotti.

From the outset, Giammetti was instrumental in the business operations while Valentino charmed and attracted elite clients, establishing a reputation that would become legendary.

Expansion and Lasting Influence in the Fashion World

Despite early financial challenges, including extravagant expenditures, Valentino’s brand ultimately flourished. His initial celebrity clients included Italian actresses Gina Lollobrigida and Sophia Loren, along with Hollywood’s Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn. Esteemed Vogue editor Diana Vreeland also played a pivotal role in mentoring the young designer.

Over the years, Valentino expanded his empire to include ready-to-wear, menswear, and accessories. In 1998, he sold the company to an Italian holding group for an estimated $300 million while remaining involved in design for another decade.

The designer celebrated his 45th anniversary in the fashion industry in 2007 with a momentous three-day event and grand ball in Rome’s Villa Borghese gallery.

Legacy and Final Farewell

Valentino officially retired in 2008, with Alessandra Facchinetti briefly succeeding him, followed by Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli. Piccioli continued to guide the brand through a period of acclaim until his departure in 2024, with Alessandro Michele later taking the helm at Valentino.

Currently, Valentino’s business is jointly owned by Qatar’s Mayhoola, holding a 70% stake, and the French luxury giant Kering, which owns the remaining 30% with an option for full control by 2028 or 2029. Richard Bellini was appointed CEO last September.

A public viewing will take place at the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation on Wednesday and Thursday, with a funeral scheduled for Friday at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in central Rome.

Barry contributed to this report from Milan, fulfilling a stint as a former Associated Press writer.