Iconic Italian designer Valentino Garavani, who dressed dozens of Hollywood stars, Princess Diana, Jackie Kennedy and others, died Monday, Jan. 19, in Rome at 93 years old.
A legend in the fashion industry, Valentino founded his own luxury brand and dressed some of the top American stars over his nearly five-decade career. The fashion designer’s Instagram account and that of his foundation announced the death in a post Monday, Jan. 19.
“Our founder, Valentino Garavani, passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” the post read.
Italian President Sergio Mattarella expressed his condolences on Valentino’s death in a Jan. 19 statement.
“With the passing of Valentino, Italy has lost a successful stylist who was able to keep up with trends and styles. He contributed great insight and excellent creations to the fashion industry. I express my condolences to his relatives and colleagues,” Mattarella said in the statement.
Here’s what to know about Valentino.
When did Valentino Garavani die?
Valentino died Jan. 19 at his home in Rome, his foundation and personal account said in an Instagram post Monday. He was 93 years old. No cause of death was given.
Who was Valentino Garavani?
Born Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani in Voghera, Italy, he became a legendary fashion designer and founded Valentino, a luxury fashion brand, according to Glam Observer, a fashion career academy platform.
After his early years studying fashion and design, Valentino launched his company, Maison Valentino, in 1960 alongside Italian businesman Giancarlo Giammetti, according to the brand’s website.
“I love beauty,” Valentino said. “It is not my fault. And I know what women want: They want to be beautiful.”
Who did Valentino design for?
Valentino’s storied career brought his design outside Italy, the attire becoming a favorite of western celebrities, from Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, Joan Collins, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Penelope Cruz, Sharon Stone and beyond. He also introduced a signature shade of crimson, with a hit of orange, known as “Valentino Red.”
Valentino retired from designing in 2008, but the brand remains popular. Valentino’s social media accounts show celebrities Colman Domingo, Hannah Einbinder, Natasha Lyonne and Adam Brody wearing full Valentino looks at the recent Golden Globe Awards.
USA TODAY contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Who was Valentino? Italian designer who dressed stars dead at 93
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
