Valentino Garavani, legendary fashion designer, dies aged 93

The world of fashion is mourning the loss of legendary designer Valentino Garavani, whose name became synonymous with glamour, refinement and an unmistakable shade of red. Valentino died in Rome aged 93, passing away at his Roman residence surrounded by loved ones, according to statements released by his foundation.

Born in 1932 in Voghera, northern Italy, Valentino developed a fascination with fashion from a young age. Determined to pursue his creative ambitions, he moved to Paris to study at the École des Beaux-Arts and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture, where he trained under leading couture houses. These formative years shaped the craftsmanship, discipline and attention to detail that would define his career.

After early success in Paris, Valentino returned to Italy and, alongside his lifelong business partner Giancarlo Giammetti, founded the House of Valentino. Together, the pair built one of the world's most influential luxury fashion brands, balancing creative purity with international commercial success.

Valentino's designs became a staple among Hollywood royalty and global high society. His clients included Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Collins and Cate Blanchett, all drawn to his ability to create garments that exuded confidence, femininity and elegance. One of his most enduring relationships was with Jackie Kennedy, who became both a close friend and devoted client following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Valentino designed many of her most admired looks, including her wedding dress when she married Aristotle Onassis in 1968.

His influence extended far beyond the red carpet. In 1979, Valentino's work made global headlines when Iran's Empress Farah Pahlavi fled the country during the revolution wearing a sleek Valentino coat, an image that came to symbolise dignity and composure amid political upheaval.

No element of Valentino's legacy is more instantly recognisable than "Valentino red," the vibrant shade forever linked to his name. The colour became a signature of his couture and a symbol of power and sophistication. One of its most iconic moments came in 1992, when Princess Diana wore a red velvet and lace Valentino gown, a look that remains etched in fashion history.

Valentino once described his creative philosophy with characteristic simplicity, saying: "I know what women want. They want to be beautiful." That belief guided decades of collections, as his house expanded into menswear and luxury accessories, including highly sought-after handbags.

In 1998, the House of Valentino was sold for approximately $300 million, though Valentino remained closely involved as chief designer. In 2005, the company made history as the first Italian fashion house to be listed on the stock exchange, reflecting its enormous global influence.

Valentino also became a cultural figure beyond fashion, appearing as himself in the 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada, a movie widely believed to draw inspiration from the world he helped shape.

After more than 60 years in the fashion industry, Valentino retired in 2008 and spent his later years living quietly in Rome. His legacy continues through his iconic designs, which remain a fixture at award ceremonies and film premieres, worn by modern stars including Zendaya, Rihanna and Florence Pugh.

Tributes have poured in from around the world, including from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who described Valentino as the "undisputed master of style and elegance" and said his legacy would continue to inspire generations.

Valentino Garavani leaves behind a legacy defined by beauty, craftsmanship and timeless style. His work transformed fashion into an art form, ensuring his name will forever remain synonymous with elegance.