Valentino Garavani, the Italian fashion designer whose name became synonymous with luxury and refined style, has died at the age of 93. He passed away peacefully at his Rome home on January 19, 2026, surrounded by family and close friends.
Born in Voghera, Lombardy, in 1932, Valentino displayed a fascination with fashion from an early age. After studying in Milan and Paris, he trained with leading couturiers including Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche, honing a signature style that blended classic tailoring with a modern flair.
In 1959, Valentino returned to Rome to open his first salon on Via Condotti. His work quickly attracted the international elite, including Hollywood stars such as Elizabeth Taylor. He also formed a lifelong partnership with Giancarlo Giammetti, who managed the business side while Valentino focused on design.
While Valentino is best known for his legendary red-carpet gowns and the iconic “Valentino Red,” his influence extended to menswear, accessories, and fragrances, shaping luxury fashion for both men and women. His collections emphasised refined lines, impeccable tailoring, and understated elegance – qualities that continue to inspire contemporary designers.
Valentino retired from active design in 2008, leaving behind a global brand and a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation. His contributions to fashion were recognised with numerous awards, including the French Legion of Honour.
Valentino’s death marks the passing of a true icon of style, whose influence on modern men’s fashion – from suiting to accessories – remains enduring. Funeral arrangements are expected to take place in Rome later this week.
