The world of fashion has lost its emperor. At 93, Valentino Garavani, known simply as Valentino, has passed away, leaving behind a legacy woven into the very fabric of haute couture. For over half a century, his name was synonymous with an unapologetic pursuit of beauty, unmatched elegance, and, of course, a specific, vibrant shade of red.

Valentino was not just a designer; he was an architect of dreams. He dressed the world’s most powerful and beautiful women, from First Ladies to Hollywood royalty, transforming them into icons of style. His influence extended far beyond the atelier in Rome, shaping the global understanding of luxury and femininity. As we bid farewell to the Last Emperor of fashion, we look back on a life dedicated to the art of elegance.

Early Life and Fashion Beginnings

The story of Valentino begins far from the flashing lights of Paris runways. Born in Voghera, Italy, in 1932, Valentino showed an early and intense fascination with art and beauty.

Childhood and Inspirations

From a young age, Valentino was captivated by the visual world. He would often lose himself in the cinema, mesmerized by the costumes and the glamorous stars of the silver screen. This early exposure to the transformative power of clothing planted the seeds for his future career. He didn’t just want to make clothes; he wanted to create an aura, a fantasy that women could step into.

Fashion Education in Paris

To truly master his craft, Valentino knew he had to go to the heart of the fashion world: Paris. At 17, he moved to France to study at the École des Beaux-Arts and the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne.

His education was hands-on and rigorous. He apprenticed under masters like Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche, absorbing the intricate techniques of haute couture. Paris taught him the importance of structure, the flow of fabric, and the discipline required to create perfection. These formative years shaped his philosophy, blending French sophistication with his innate Italian flair for drama.

Founding the House of Valentino

In 1960, Valentino returned to Italy, ready to make his mark. He established his eponymous fashion house on the Via Condotti in Rome.

Establishment of Valentino (1960)

The early days were not without their challenges. While his talent was undeniable, the business side of running a fashion house proved difficult. He faced financial struggles that threatened to close his doors before they had fully opened. However, his partnership with Giancarlo Giammetti—both in business and in life—provided the stability the brand needed to thrive.

International Recognition

The turning point came quickly. His 1962 debut in Florence was a triumph. The collection was hailed as a revelation, and buyers from around the world took notice. He had successfully bridged the gap between the grandeur of Parisian couture and the sensual, relaxed elegance of Rome. Suddenly, Valentino was not just an Italian designer; he was a global sensation.

The Birth of “Valentino Red”

No discussion of Valentino is complete without mentioning the color that became his signature. “Valentino Red” is not just a hue; it is a statement.

Origins of the Iconic Color

The inspiration struck during his student days in Barcelona. While attending the opera, he saw a woman in the audience wearing a red velvet dress. She stood out amidst the sea of black and grey, exuding energy and confidence. Valentino realized then that red was the only color that could compete with black and white.

Cultural and Fashion Impact

He developed his own custom shade—a mix of 100 percent magenta, 100 percent yellow, and 10 percent black. This “Rosso Valentino” became a symbol of power, passion, and unapologetic femininity. Throughout his career, practically every collection featured a red dress, a beacon of his enduring vision. It was worn by royalty and celebrities alike, becoming a cultural shorthand for high-octane glamour.

Dressing the World’s Most Iconic Women

Valentino’s client list reads like a Who’s Who of the 20th and 21st centuries. He had a unique ability to make women feel beautiful, regal, and protected.

Celebrity and Royal Clients

His relationship with Jackie Kennedy is perhaps the most famous. After seeing his designs, she became a devoted client, famously wearing a Valentino dress for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis. He also dressed Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, and Princess Margaret. These women didn’t just wear his clothes; they became his friends and muses.

Hollywood and Global Influence

In later years, he dominated the red carpet. Julia Roberts accepted her Oscar for Erin Brockovich in a vintage black and white Valentino gown, a moment often cited as one of the greatest in Oscar fashion history. From Cannes to the Met Gala, celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Anne Hathaway, and Lady Gaga turned to Valentino for moments that required maximum impact.

Design Philosophy and Signature Style

What set Valentino apart was his steadfast dedication to beauty. In an era where fashion often turned towards deconstruction or grunge, Valentino remained committed to romance.

His silhouettes were feminine and flattering, often utilizing bows, ruffles, and intricate embroidery. Yet, despite the ornamentation, there was a purity to his lines. He mastered the art of refined tailoring, blending minimalism with luxury in a way that felt timeless rather than trendy. His attention to craftsmanship was obsessive; every seam, every bead, every fold had to be perfect.

Awards, Honors, and Industry Recognition

Valentino’s contributions were recognized globally. He received the highest honors the fashion world could bestow, including the Neiman Marcus Award and the Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur in France.

Italy, too, celebrated its native son. He was awarded the Cavaliere di Gran Croce and the Medal of the City of Rome. Beyond the medals, his influence is seen in the generations of designers who cite him as an inspiration. He proved that elegance never goes out of style.

Retirement and Later Years

In 2008, Valentino announced his retirement, marking the end of an era.

Farewell Show in 2008

His final haute couture show in Paris was an emotional affair. Models walked the runway in identical red dresses, a powerful visual tribute to his signature style. It was a celebration of a career that had spanned 45 years and changed the face of fashion forever.

Life Beyond the Runway

Even in retirement, Valentino remained active. He focused on the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum and his philanthropic efforts. He continued to be a presence at major fashion events, always impeccably dressed, always with that signature tan, watching over the house he built as it evolved under new creative directors.

Valentino’s Legacy in Modern Fashion

The House of Valentino continues to thrive today, a testament to the strong foundation its founder built. Creative directors like Pierpaolo Piccioli have carried the torch, reinterpreting Valentino’s codes for a modern audience while respecting the heritage of the house. The “Valentino Red” remains a staple, and the brand’s commitment to couture craftsmanship endures.

Tributes from the Fashion World

Since the news of his passing, tributes have poured in from every corner of the globe. Fellow designers, models, editors, and heads of state have expressed their sorrow and admiration. He is remembered not just for the clothes he made, but for the life he lived—a life of beauty, executed with perfect taste. He was the last of the old-guard couturiers, a link to a golden age of fashion that we may never see again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who was Valentino Garavani?

Valentino Garavani was an Italian fashion designer and the founder of the Valentino SpA brand and company. He was one of the most prominent figures in international fashion from the 1960s until his retirement in 2008.

Why is Valentino Red so famous?

“Valentino Red” is a specific bright shade of poppy red that became the designer’s signature. He believed it was the best color to showcase a woman’s presence and included a red dress in almost every collection.

Which celebrities did Valentino dress?

He dressed countless icons, including Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Julia Roberts, Anne Hathaway, and Jennifer Lopez.

When did Valentino retire from fashion?

Valentino officially retired in January 2008 after presenting his final haute couture show in Paris.

How is Valentino remembered today?

He is remembered as the “Last Emperor” of fashion, a master of couture who championed elegance, romance, and femininity throughout his decades-long career.

A Lasting Shade of Elegance

Valentino Garavani leaves behind a world that is a little less colorful without him. His life was a testament to the enduring power of beauty and the belief that clothing can be art. As long as there is a red dress on a runway, Valentino will be remembered.

If you want to explore the current collections that continue his legacy, visit the official Valentino website or your nearest boutique to experience the magic of Roman couture firsthand.