Italian fashion legend Valentino Garavani has passed away at the age of 93, according to a statement from his foundation on March 19, 2024. He died peacefully at his home in Rome, although no specific cause of death has been disclosed. The foundation celebrated his life, describing him as “a true source of light, creativity and vision,” marking the end of a remarkable career that profoundly influenced the global fashion landscape for nearly half a century.
Valentino, known simply by his first name, dressed some of the most notable figures in the world, including queens, first ladies, and Hollywood stars. His designs were favored by personalities such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Julia Roberts, and Queen Rania of Jordan. The designer famously stated, “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful,” reflecting his commitment to enhancing women’s confidence through fashion.
Enduring Influence and Iconic Designs
Valentino’s career was marked by his creation of glamorous dresses, particularly his signature shade of “Valentino red.” He showcased numerous collections in Paris, while maintaining his atelier in Rome, where he collaborated closely with his longtime partner, Giancarlo Giammetti. Together, they established a fashion house celebrated for its intricate bows, lace, ruffles, and elegant details.
Tributes from the fashion community have poured in following his death. Creative director Alessandro Michele remembered Valentino as “a man who expanded the limits of the possible.” Former supermodel Cindy Crawford described him as “a true master of his craft,” while Donatella Versace emphasized that his artistic legacy will endure. Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni honored him as “a maestro of eternal style.”
Valentino’s designs dominated red carpets for decades. He notably dressed Julia Roberts when she won her Oscar in 2001 and created the gown worn by Cate Blanchett for her Oscar victory in 2005. He also designed the wedding dress for Jacqueline Kennedy’s marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968.
A Life Dedicated to Beauty and Fashion
Born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy, Valentino developed a passion for movies and glamour during his childhood. After studying fashion in Milan and Paris, he opened his own fashion house in Rome in 1959. His career flourished, expanding into ready-to-wear clothing, menswear, and accessories. After more than 45 years in the industry, Valentino retired in 2008, leaving behind a globally recognized brand.
Even after his retirement, his influence remained palpable, as subsequent designers continued to carry forward his vision. Valentino firmly believed in the significance of beauty, stating, “Woman is like a beautiful flower bouquet,” which encapsulated his dedication to elegance and artistry in fashion.
Valentino Garavani’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations in the world of fashion.
