Legendary Italian Designer Valentino Garavani Dies at 93

Valentino Garavani, the iconic Italian fashion designer who founded one of the world’s most influential luxury brands, has passed away at the age of 93. The announcement was confirmed by the Valentino Foundation on January 18, marking the end of an era in haute couture.

“Our founder, Valentino Garavani, passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement read, shared via his personal Instagram account and the foundation’s official page.

Funeral and Lying in State Details

Valentino’s lying in state will take place at PM23, Piazza Mignanelli 23, on Wednesday and Thursday, January 21 and 22, from 11am to 6pm.

His funeral is scheduled for Friday, January 23, at 11am at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, located in Piazza della Repubblica, Rome.

Fashion World and Hollywood Mourn

News of Valentino’s death has sent shockwaves across the global fashion industry and Hollywood, with designers, actors, and influencers expressing grief and admiration for his legacy. Fashion expert Cameron Silver described him as “one of the greatest,” while former Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli expressed his sorrow with a broken heart emoji.

Over a career spanning more than five decades, Valentino Garavani became synonymous with elegance, timeless glamour, and the iconic “Valentino red.” His designs adorned stars including Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Kidman, and Anne Hathaway, cementing his status as a fashion icon.

Born on May 11, 1932, Valentino lived in Rome with his longtime partner Bruce Hoeksema, former vice president of the Valentino fashion house. The couple had shared their lives since 1982, supporting each other both personally and professionally.