Valentino Garavani, the famed Italian couturier closely linked with red-carpet elegance and “Valentino Red,” has died at 93. The founder of the global luxury house Maison Valentino passed away at his home in Rome, marking the end of an era in fashion history.
Who was Valentino Garavani?
Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani, better known as Valentino, was a renowned Italian fashion designer and the founder of Maison Valentino. Often referred to as “The Last Emperor” of fashion, he was essential to the glitz of the 20th century. He gained fame for his detailed craftsmanship, luxurious outfits, and for dressing a celebrated circle of clients called “Val’s Gals,” including Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Sophia Loren.
Valentino Garavani Age and Passing
Valentino Garavani was born on May 11, 1932. He died at the age of 93 on January 19, 2026. His foundation, the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti, announced that he “passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones.” The announcement was made via a statement on Instagram.
Valentino Garavani Early Life and Education
Valentino Garavani was born to Mauro Garavani and Teresa de Biaggi in northern Italy. Showing an early interest in fashion, he moved to Paris as a teenager to study at the École des Beaux-Arts and later at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, where he trained in haute couture techniques before returning to Italy.
Valentino Fashion Designer Career
Valentino began his career after coming back to Rome, where he opened his first fashion house on Via Condotti in 1959. In 1960, he officially started Maison Valentino with his longtime partner, Giancarlo Giammetti.
His international breakthrough came in 1962 at the Pitti Palace fashion show in Florence, which established him as a leading name in haute couture. Over the decades, Valentino became synonymous with refined craftsmanship, luxury, and classic femininity.
Valentino Red and Signature Style
Valentino became globally famous for his signature shade known as “Valentino Red,” a vibrant poppy-red colour that became a defining element of his brand. His designs were characterised by elegant silhouettes, intricate embroidery, bows, ruffles, lace, and a strong emphasis on timeless glamour.
Valentino Famous Clients
Valentino dressed many of the most iconic women of the 20th century, known as “Val’s Gals.” His famous clients included Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, Sophia Loren, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, for whom he designed her wedding dress in 1968. His designs also became regular features on international red carpets.
When did Valentino Garavani Retire?
In 2008, Valentino concluded his career as a designer with a last haute couture presentation in Paris, marking his official retirement. Although he stepped away from active designing, he stayed closely connected to the brand and its cultural legacy.
Valentino Garavani Wife and Children
Valentino Garavani never married and did not have children. He was open about his personal life and often spoke about his long-term companionship with Giancarlo Giammetti, with whom he shared both a personal and professional bond for decades.
Valentino Garavani Net Worth
At the time of his death, Valentino Garavani’s net worth was estimated at around $1.5 billion (₹136.38 billion). His wealth stemmed largely from the 1998 sale of Maison Valentino, royalties, investments, luxury real estate holdings, and an extensive art collection.
Valentino Most Expensive Articles
Valentino’s most valuable creations were custom haute couture gowns designed for private clients and historic public appearances. Among the most iconic were Julia Roberts’ Oscar gown and Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress, both considered priceless fashion artefacts. High-end Valentino couture pieces can exceed $30,000, while luxury accessories retail in the premium segment.
Mario Valentino vs Valentino Garavani
Many people confuse Valentino Garavani with Mario Valentino, even though the two brands are unrelated. Valentino Garavani launched the high-end fashion house Maison Valentino in 1960, while Mario Valentino is an independent Italian leather goods brand founded in 1952 that serves a different market.
Valentino Garavani Legacy
Valentino Garavani is remembered as one of the final great couturiers of classical fashion.His work inspired generations of designers, shaped decades of high-end fashion, and contributed to the development of a powerful worldwide brand.With his passing, the fashion world marks the end of an era centered on elegance, discipline, and timeless beauty.
