The world of high fashion is in mourning following the death of its legendary emperor. Valentino Garavani, the iconic Italian designer who founded the globally celebrated Valentino fashion house, has passed away. He was 93 years old.
Announcement and Final Arrangements
The sad news was officially announced on January 19, 2026, through posts on Valentino's personal Instagram account and his foundation's platforms. The statement confirmed he died at his residence in Rome, surrounded by close family and friends.
The announcement included details for his final rites. A lying-in-state is scheduled for Wednesday, January 21st, and Thursday, January 22nd, at PM23 in Piazza Mignanelli 23, Rome, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. His funeral will then be held on Friday, January 23rd, at 11 am at the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Piazza della Repubblica, Rome. The news prompted an outpouring of tributes from fellow industry giants in the comments of the Instagram post.
A Legacy Defined by Red and Royalty
Valentino's name became synonymous with elegance, glamour, and a specific shade of vivid red, often called "Valentino Red." His profile as a designer skyrocketed to international fame after a pivotal moment in American history. In the year following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, his widow, Jackie Kennedy, purchased and wore six Valentino outfits, cementing his status in high society.
This association with style royalty continued when Jackie Kennedy chose a Valentino gown for her wedding to Greek shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. Valentino's understanding of his clientele was profound. In the 2008 documentary Valentino: The Last Emperor, he revealed the simple secret to his enduring success: "I know what women want. They want to be beautiful."
Pop Culture Presence and Lasting Influence
Beyond the runway, Valentino made memorable appearances in popular culture. He played himself in the influential 2006 fashion film The Devil Wears Prada. His life and final years at the helm of his brand were also captured in the aforementioned 2008 documentary, which featured appearances from stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Anne Hathaway, Elizabeth Hurley, and Sarah Jessica Parker, alongside his six beloved pugs.
Valentino Garavani's passing marks the end of an era in fashion. For decades, he dressed the world's most famous and powerful women, creating a legacy of breathtaking beauty and meticulous craftsmanship that will continue to influence designers for generations to come. His brand remains a pillar of the luxury fashion industry, a testament to his visionary talent.
