Renowned Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani died on January 19. He was aged 93.
The news was shared on Instagram from his personal and foundation accounts on Monday morning. “Our founder, Valentino Garavani, passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” the announcement read.
The announcement confirmed Valentino will have a lying in state beginning at the Piazza Mignanelli, located not far from Rome’s famous Spanish Steps, from January 21 to 22nd. The funeral will take place on January 23 at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, located in the Piazza della Repubblica.
Born in the Italian province of Pavia, Valentino was an apprentice for Jacques Fath and Balenciaga before launching his own brand. He would later become the go-to designer for the likes of former First Lady Jackie Kennedy, movie star Audrey Hepburn, and royalty like Princess Diana.
Earning the nickname “The Last Emperor,” Valentino became a master of haute couture and created a world of glamour and fantasy through his clothing. With his business—and, briefly, romantic—partner, Giancarlo Giammeti, Valentino’s eponymous brand became a global sensation and a pinnacle of 20th and 21st century fashion.
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