Valentino Garavani, the Roman couturier who launched his label in 1960 and went on to dress European royalty, American first ladies, and the most glamorous women of his era, has passed away at his home in Rome at the age of 93.

Beloved by actresses, first ladies, and fellow designers alike, Valentino lived and worked in pursuit of glamour. With his exacting pattern-making, signature hue of poppy red, and an unmistakable eye for feminine detail — bows, ruffles, lace, and intricate embroidery — he became one of the defining architects of late 20th-century elegance.

His inner circle, affectionately known as Val’s Gals, included Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, and Sophia Loren. Jackie Kennedy wore a white Valentino gown for her wedding to Aristotle Onassis, while decades later, the designer reinterpreted a mint-green dress he had created for her in 1967 for Jennifer Lopez’s appearance at the 2003 Oscars. In 2001, Julia Roberts accepted her Academy Award for Erin Brockovich in a vintage black-and-white Valentino gown — a moment forever etched into fashion history.

This is the story of Valentino Garavani — then, now, and how he will be remembered.

Valentino Red: From Classic Glamour to Modern Power

Then: In the 1960s and 70s, Valentino Red appeared in sculpted, couture-perfect silhouettes. The colour felt confident yet restrained — a statement without spectacle.

Now: Today, Valentino Red moves freely. Fluid drapes, dramatic volumes, and modern sensuality redefine power dressing for a new generation.

What never changed: Red remains the emotional heartbeat of the house.

White & Bridal Couture: Understated Then, Ethereal Now

Then: Valentino’s white couture reached icon status with Jackie Kennedy’s 1968 wedding gown — minimal, graceful, and eternally relevant.

Now: Modern Valentino bridal couture embraces romance through layered tulles, delicate florals, and soft drama — expressive yet never excessive.

What never changed: White at Valentino always whispers elegance.

Florals: Romance Reimagined

Then: Vintage Valentino florals were delicate — hand-embroidered petals, soft fabrics, and garden-inspired femininity.

Now: Florals are sculptural and expressive. Bold placements and couture craftsmanship transform them into wearable art.

What never changed: Florals are emotional, never decorative.

Black Lace & Sheer Gowns: Timeless Sensuality

Then: Black lace was sensual yet aristocratic — designed to allure, not shock.

Now: Modern Valentino sheer gowns embrace confidence with layered transparency and contemporary cuts.

What never changed: Sexiness at Valentino is always sophisticated.

Red Carpet Moments: Icons Then, Global Glamour Now

Then: Julia Roberts’ Valentino gown at the 2001 Academy Awards became one of fashion’s most unforgettable red-carpet moments.

Now: From Cannes to London premieres, Valentino couture continues to command attention — confident, cinematic, and timeless.

What never changed: A Valentino gown doesn’t follow the red carpet. It defines it.

How Valentino Garavani Will Be Remembered

Valentino Garavani will be remembered not just as a couturier but as a guardian of elegance.
In an industry that constantly reinvents itself, he remained devoted to beauty, discipline, and romance. He proved that fashion could be powerful without being loud, sensual without being provocative, and modern without losing its soul.

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