Valentino Garavani, the iconic Italian fashion designer and founder of the legendary fashion house Valentino, has passed away at the age of 93 at his home in Rome, his foundation announced on January 19, 2026. His death marks the end of an era in haute couture that spanned more than five decades.
Born Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani in 1932 in Voghera, northern Italy, he showed a passion for fashion early in life and moved to Paris as a young man to study at prestigious design institutions and work with esteemed designers before launching his own label in 1960.
Valentino quickly became known for his elegant and sophisticated designs, especially his use of rich fabrics, delicate lace, feminine silhouettes, and the signature “Valentino red” – a vibrant shade that became his trademark. His creations adorned royalty, celebrities, and high society figures worldwide, from Jacqueline Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor to Audrey Hepburn, Princess Diana, Julia Roberts, and Queen Rania of Jordan.
Over the years, Valentino’s couture house earned a reputation for timeless glamour and refined craftsmanship, making it one of the most respected names in fashion. His loyal circle of clients and admirers were often called “Val’s Gals,” reflecting their admiration for his aesthetic and his ability to make women feel beautiful.
In 2008, after decades of shaping the global fashion landscape, Valentino retired, leaving a legacy that continued to influence modern design. During his lifetime, he was also the subject of the documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor, which offered an intimate look at his creative process and life in the world of haute couture.
Valentino’s passing is being mourned by the fashion community and fans around the world. A public lying-in-state and funeral were announced to take place in Rome in the coming days.
