Valentino Garavani, renowned for his luxurious and feminine designs, passed away on Monday at his home in Rome. He was 93 years old. His death marks the end of an era for the fashion world, as he was a significant figure in haute couture for nearly five decades. Valentino, known simply as Valentino, founded his eponymous label in 1960, creating garments that adorned some of the most celebrated women in entertainment and royalty.
Throughout his illustrious career, Valentino’s designs were characterized by their elegance and charm. He often emphasized his mission to enhance the beauty of women, stating in a 2007 interview with Elle magazine, “The first and most important thing is that I try my hardest — with all my passion — to make a woman look beautiful.” This devotion to his craft solidified his place as a favorite among celebrities, especially on the red carpet.
His impressive roster of clients included icons such as Princess Diana, Audrey Hepburn, and Meryl Streep, each of whom showcased his creations during pivotal moments. Elizabeth Taylor was an early supporter, famously donning a Valentino gown for the premiere of Spartacus in 1960. Their relationship evolved over time, with Valentino designing garments for both her public appearances and private events, including her wedding to Larry Fortensky in 1991.
Valentino’s designs were not only sought after by Hollywood stars but also by notable political figures. For instance, Jacqueline Kennedy often wore his creations during her mourning period following the assassination of her husband, John F. Kennedy, in 1963. One of his notable pieces for her included a two-piece cream ensemble from the 1968 “White Collection,” worn during her marriage to Aristotle Onassis.
Red Carpet Highlights and Signature Style
Valentino’s impact on the Academy Awards is particularly notable. He designed several iconic gowns for Oscar winners, including a black gown worn by Julia Roberts when she accepted the best actress award for Erin Brockovich in 2001. Valentino described this moment as a career highlight, expressing his excitement at seeing Roberts wear his creation.
His enthusiasm for the color red became synonymous with his brand. “Red is life, passion, love; it’s the cure for sadness,” he remarked in a 2018 interview. This signature hue was prominently featured in his final collection in 2008, where all models walked the runway in gowns of the same striking shade, now recognized as “Valentino Red” by the Pantone Color Institute.
Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Italy, Valentino was influenced by the glamour of cinema from an early age. His mother, Teresa, named him after the silent film star Rudolph Valentino, unaware that her son would achieve his own kind of fame. He pursued studies in fashion and art, ultimately leading to a successful career that began with his first collection in Rome.
Valentino’s partnership with Giancarlo Giammetti, who joined the Valentino house as a business manager, played a crucial role in the brand’s success. The duo not only became a glamorous couple within Milan’s elite social circles but also built a fashion empire that reflected their sophisticated lifestyle.
Legacy and Philanthropy
Despite retiring in January 2008, Valentino remained active in the fashion community and philanthropy. He co-founded the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum, showcasing his extensive archives and contributions to fashion. Additionally, he established a foundation dedicated to various charitable initiatives, including support for underprivileged children and cultural programs.
Valentino’s legacy is one of elegance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of beauty in fashion. He once remarked, “Even as a young boy, my passion was to design, and I have been very lucky to be able to do what I have loved all my life.” His influence continues to resonate within the fashion industry, ensuring that his vision for making women feel beautiful will be remembered for years to come.
