The fashion world mourns the loss of legendary Italian couturier Valentino Garavani, who passed away at age 93 in his Roman residence on Monday. The confirmation came through Italy’s ANSA news agency, citing official statements from the Valentino Garavani Foundation and his lifelong partner Giancarlo Giammetti.
Renowned simply as Valentino throughout his illustrious career, the designer revolutionized haute couture with creations that defined elegance for generations. His clientele represented the pinnacle of global sophistication, dressing iconic figures from Jacqueline Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn to Elizabeth Taylor, Nancy Reagan, and contemporary stars including Julia Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Sharon Stone.
Beyond his professional achievements, Valentino cultivated an image of refined luxury that extended to his personal life—recognizable by his impeccably maintained appearance, distinctive caramel tan, and frequent companionship of his beloved pug dogs. His aesthetic philosophy transformed how modern women approached glamour, combining classical sophistication with contemporary flair.
The fashion industry acknowledges Valentino’s passing as the end of an era in high fashion. His legacy includes not only breathtaking designs but also an enduring influence on global fashion aesthetics and luxury standards. Tributes from fashion houses, former clients, and design protégés are expected to pour in worldwide as the community remembers his monumental contributions to couture.