RismadarVoice Reporters
January 19, 2026
Legendary Italian fashion designer, Valentino Garavani, famed for his elegant evening gowns and the iconic “Valentino red,” has died at the age of 93.
According to a statement from the Valentino Foundation on Monday, Garavani passed away at his residence in Rome, surrounded by family.
“Valentino Garavani passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement read.
“The lying-in-state will be held at PM23, Piazza Mignanelli 23, on Wednesday, January 21, and Thursday, January 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The funeral will take place on Friday, January 23, at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, Piazza della Repubblica 8, Rome, at 11:00 a.m.”
Born in Voghera, northern Italy, in 1932, Valentino trained in Parisian haute couture ateliers before establishing his own fashion house in Rome in 1959. Early in his career, he became renowned for his scarlet dresses, a shade that became his signature and is famously known as “Valentino red.”
In 1960, he met Giancarlo Giammetti, his long-time business and romantic partner for 12 years. Together, they transformed Valentino SpA into a globally recognized luxury brand.
Valentino’s designs quickly attracted high-profile clients, including Elizabeth Taylor, Begum Aga Khan, Queen Paola of Belgium, Audrey Hepburn, Joan Collins, and Jacqueline Kennedy, who wore a Valentino gown at her 1968 wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
Throughout the decades, Valentino remained a red carpet favourite. His creations have graced the Academy Awards, including Jane Fonda’s 1981 beaded gown, Julia Roberts’ vintage black-and-white dress in 2001, Jennifer Lopez’s pastel mint gown in 2003, and Cate Blanchett’s sunshine-yellow gown in 2005—two of which earned Oscars for their wearers. In 2002, Anne Hathaway walked the red carpet in a Valentino gown alongside the designer himself.
Valentino’s influence continues today, with stars such as Zendaya, Carey Mulligan, and Gemma Chan showcasing his designs at major awards ceremonies, underscoring the enduring legacy of his brand.
