Legendary Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani, founder of the luxury fashion house Valentino, has passed away at the age of 93.
The news was confirmed by his foundation in a statement shared on social media, which said Garavani died peacefully at his residence in Rome, surrounded by family and loved ones.
Known as Valentino, Garavani launched his fashion label in Rome in 1960 and went on to redefine luxury couture with his signature romantic silhouettes and refined elegance.
He became globally recognised for “Valentino red,” a distinctive shade that became one of the most iconic colors in high fashion.
His designs attracted some of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor wore a Valentino gown to the premiere of Spartacus in 1960, while former US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy was among his most notable clients. She famously commissioned several couture pieces from him, including her wedding dress for her marriage.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Valentino’s creations became synonymous with Hollywood glamour, dressing leading actresses such as Joan Collins, Jennifer Lopez, Gwyneth Paltrow, Courteney Cox, Anne Hathaway, and Nicola Peltz Beckham.
His designs have continued to dominate red carpets in recent years, worn by stars including Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, Zendaya, Dakota Johnson, and Florence Pugh.
Beyond the runway, Garavani made a cameo appearance as himself in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada and was the focus of the 2008 documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival.
Although he officially retired in January 2008, he remained a revered figure in the fashion industry, widely celebrated for his lasting influence on couture and timeless approach to design.