Valentino Garavani, a name synonymous with haute couture and glamour, has passed away at the age of 93 at his residence in Rome. Known for his impeccable designs and the iconic Valentino red, he captivated the fashion world for decades, dressing prominent figures from European royalty to Hollywood stars.
Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Italy, Valentino’s journey into fashion began early. He enrolled at the Accademia dell’Arte in Milan, honing his skills in both fashion and French culture. With ambition in his heart, he moved to Paris to study at esteemed fashion institutions, including the École des Beaux Arts. His time in Paris allowed him to work under renowned designers like Jean Dessés and Guy Laroche, who greatly influenced his artistic vision.
The ascent of a fashion powerhouse
In 1960, Valentino launched his own fashion house in Rome, quickly establishing himself as a leading figure in the industry. His designs were characterized by exquisite craftsmanship and feminine details, such as bows, ruffles, and intricate embroideries. Valentino’s breakthrough came when notable personalities like Elizabeth Taylor and Audrey Hepburn donned his creations, propelling him to international fame.
Iconic moments in fashion history
One highlight of Valentino’s career was dressing Jackie Kennedy for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis, a moment that solidified his status in fashion elite. His collections often featured luxurious materials and timeless aesthetics, captivating audiences worldwide. The designer’s All White couture collection in 1968 showcased his mastery of fabric and color, earning acclaim as a pivotal moment in Italian fashion. Vogue magazine hailed it as “the talk of Europe,” praising the collection for its purity and elegance.
Throughout the years, Valentino expanded his reach beyond the runway. In 2008, he announced his retirement, celebrated with a lavish three-day event in Rome that showcased his illustrious career. Despite stepping back from daily operations, Valentino remained a prominent figure in the fashion world, often attending shows and supporting his successors, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri.
The documentary that unveiled his life
In 2009, filmmaker Matt Tyrnauer released Valentino: The Last Emperor, a documentary offering an intimate look into the designer’s life and career. Initially hesitant, Valentino and his long-time partner Giancarlo Giammetti eventually embraced the film, which captured their world filled with luxury, creativity, and the challenges of running a high-profile fashion house.
Tyrnauer’s documentary highlighted Valentino’s designs and presented a candid portrayal of his relationship with Giammetti, illustrating the deep bond they shared over the decades. The film received critical acclaim, further solidifying Valentino’s legacy and exposing his vulnerabilities and triumphs.
A lasting legacy
Valentino Garavani’s impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. He transformed the landscape of glamour, creating an aura of sophistication that continues to inspire designers today. His signature red, often referred to as Valentino red, has become a symbol of passion and luxury, embodying the essence of Italian fashion.
Even after retirement, Valentino remained active on social media, sharing glimpses of his luxurious lifestyle and the parties he hosted at his estate in France, often accompanied by his beloved pugs. His innate sense of style and flair for entertaining made him a beloved figure in the fashion community.
As Anna Wintour remarked, Valentino was synonymous with delight, always exuding charm and grace. His impeccable manners and understanding of feminine beauty made him not only a designer but also a cultural icon. The world will remember him not just for his stunning creations but for the joy and elegance he brought to countless women’s lives.
Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera, Italy, Valentino’s journey into fashion began early. He enrolled at the Accademia dell’Arte in Milan, honing his skills in both fashion and French culture. With ambition in his heart, he moved to Paris to study at esteemed fashion institutions, including the École des Beaux Arts. His time in Paris allowed him to work under renowned designers like Jean Dessés and Guy Laroche, who greatly influenced his artistic vision.0