Valentino Garavani Passes Away at 93

Rome mourns the loss of Valentino Garavani, the iconic designer whose extravagant gowns and signature red have become synonymous with Italian elegance. He passed away on Monday at 93, in his lavish mansion situated in the heart of Rome.

Valentino’s funeral services will take place on Wednesday and Thursday at his foundation near Piazza Mignanelli, a mere stroll from the famous Spanish Steps. The official funeral is scheduled for Friday at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli dei Martiri, located centrally in Rome.

Known simply as Valentino, the esteemed designer captured the hearts of royals, celebrities, and influential figures alike, from Jackie Kennedy Onassis to Julia Roberts and Queen Rania of Jordan. He was dedicated to ensuring they looked and felt spectacular.

Hundreds, including fashion icons and members of the public, are expected to gather for a public viewing to pay respects to the “last emperor” of Italian fashion.

Always rooted in Rome, Valentino presented his collections predominantly in Paris, yet he never departed from his Italian roots. Rome’s Mayor Roberto Gualtieri celebrated him as one of “Italy’s most brilliant and beloved figures,” highlighting Valentino’s deep connection to the city.

Valentino’s nearly 50-year career, which began in the 1960s, was marked by his commitment to timeless style rather than fleeting trends. He established the House of Valentino in 1959 on Via Condotti, right in central Rome.

His classic designs made him a favorite on the red carpet, especially during award show seasons. For instance, Julia Roberts famously donned a vintage Valentino dress when she won her Best Actress Oscar in 2001, while Cate Blanchett wore a stunning yellow silk gown by Valentino for her Best Supporting Actress win in 2005.

Alessandro Michele, the current creative director at Valentino, recently shared on Instagram that he still feels Valentino’s influence as he prepares for his upcoming collection unveil, set for March 12 in Rome.