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Last Updated:January 19, 2026, 23:24 IST
The legendary designer passed away at his home in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones, the Valentino Garavani Foundation said on Instagram.
Italian designer Valentino Garavani. (AFP file photo)
Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani, whose luxurious creations adorned some of the world’s most elegant women from Jackie Kennedy to Audrey Hepburn, has died at the age of 93, his foundation confirmed on Monday.
The legendary designer passed away at his home in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones, the Valentino Garavani Foundation said on Instagram.
“Our founder, Valentino Garavani passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones," the post read.
Known simply as Valentino, he was one of the most celebrated designers of his era. His gowns were worn by international icons including Elizabeth Taylor, Nancy Reagan, Sharon Stone, Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Valentino, who retired in 2008, was famed not only for his creations but also for his personal style, often exuding elegance and luxury with his signature caramel tan and immaculate appearance, frequently accompanied by his pug dogs.
Founder of the eponymous brand, Valentino built a global fashion empire and became a symbol of Italian haute couture. He also introduced a signature shade of red, widely known as ‘Valentino Red,’ which became a hallmark of his designs.
‘Italy loses a legend’: Meloni
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to the designer, calling him a legend. In a post on X, she wrote, “Valentino, undisputed master of style and elegance and eternal symbol of Italian high fashion. Today Italy loses a legend, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. Thank you for everything."
Valentino, maestro indiscusso di stile ed eleganza e simbolo eterno dell’alta moda italiana.Oggi l’Italia perde una leggenda, ma la sua eredità continuerà a ispirare generazioni. Grazie di tutto. pic.twitter.com/hN5afQFSnp— Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) January 19, 2026
Valentino was considered among the last great couturiers of a bygone era, alongside designers like Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld. While fashion today has become a highly commercial, global industry, Valentino remained synonymous with artistry, refinement, and timeless elegance. Lagerfeld passed away in 2019, and Armani in September 2023.
The lying in state will take place on Wednesday and Thursday in Rome, with the funeral scheduled for Friday at 11 am (1000 GMT).
(With inputs from agencies)
First Published:
January 19, 2026, 23:13 IST
News world Iconic Fashion Designer Valentino Dies At 93; Meloni Says ‘Italy Lost A Legend’
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