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New Delhi: The fashion world mourns the loss of Valentino Garavani, the Italian maestro behind the iconic Valentino brand, who passed away at 93 in his Rome residence. Known as the “Last Emperor of Fashion” and the “Sheikh of Chic,” his departure marks the end of an era defined by opulent glamour and timeless elegance. Garavani’s designs, especially his signature Valentino Red, graced royalty, Hollywood stars, and first ladies, leaving an indelible mark on couture that continues to inspire designers today. From red carpets to bridal gowns, his creations embodied luxury that felt both regal and romantic, captivating generations with their intricate embroidery and masterful draping.​

This sad news invites us to revisit the sparkle of Valentino Garavani’s extraordinary journey, from a small-town dreamer to global fashion royalty. As tributes pour in, let’s celebrate the man who turned fabric into fantasy, dressing icons like Jackie Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn in outfits that screamed sophistication. His legacy isn’t just in stitches—it’s in the confidence he gave women worldwide through his feminine, bold visions.

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A post shared by Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti (@fondazionevggg)

Valentino Garavani: Legendary fashion icon

Valentino Garavani, born Rodolfo Valentino Garavani, founded the Maison Valentino in Rome in 1960 alongside lifelong partner Giancarlo Giammetti. He became synonymous with high couture glamour, crafting evening gowns, ready-to-wear lines, and accessories that blended Italian craftsmanship with Parisian flair. Over decades, his label expanded into perfumes, eyewear, and more, building a luxury empire adored by elites.

From Voghera to Vogue Fame

Young Valentino sparked his passion for fashion in primary school in Voghera, Italy, apprenticing under aunt Rosa and designer Ernestina Salvadeo. At 17, backed by parents Teresa de Biaggi and Mauro Garavani, he moved to Paris, studying at École des Beaux-Arts and Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, then working under Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche.​

In 1959, he returned to Rome, opening his atelier. His 1960 debut at Palazzo Pitti in Florence exploded onto the scene, earning international acclaim by 1962 and dressing socialites like Babe Paley. The 1960s brought Jackie Kennedy’s wedding gown for her 1968 marriage to Aristotle Onassis, skyrocketing his fame; he followed with Farah Diba’s 1979 exile suit and endless red-carpet triumphs. By the 1970s-80s, Valentino Red—born from a 1962 bolt of scarlet fabric—defined his aesthetic, alongside bows, chiffon, and polka dots. He retired in 2007 after 45 years, his final show a tearful farewell, though he lingered in bridal and opera designs.

Valentino Garavani’s significant contributions and achievements in the fashion world

Garavani revolutionised couture with bold colours, luxurious fabrics, and impeccable tailoring, earning the French Legion d’Honneur in 2006. He dressed seven James Bond girls, countless Oscar winners, and politicians like Bernadette Chirac, while his 45-year reign built a brand now owned by global investors. Celebrated for elevating femininity—think romantic volumes and intricate embroidery—his work influenced luxury fashion’s focus on joy and sensuality over trends.

Why Valentino Garavani lives on

His Valentino Red remains a cultural icon, symbolising passion in logos, runways, and wardrobes everywhere. Garavani’s empire endures under creative directors like Pierpaolo Piccioli, with his Roman residences, yacht, and cookbook showcasing a lifestyle of unapologetic elegance. He’ll be remembered as the couturier who made every woman feel like royalty, his “tortured” genius replaced by pure joy in creation.​

Valentino Garavani’s timeless designs ensure his spirit dances on in every swish of red silk. Rest in chic, maestro—fashion’s emperor forever.