Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer and founder of the Valentino brand, has died at the age of 93 at his home in Rome, his foundation announced. The cause of death has not been announced.
Valentino was one of the most prominent names in Italian fashion and was known for his ability to combine classic elegance with refined details, leading many Hollywood stars, including Elizabeth Taylor, Sharon Stone, Penelope Cruz and Jackie Kennedy, to choose his creations for the most important events.
He was also famous for "Valentino Red," the red shade inspired by the elegance of an elderly woman he had seen at the Barcelona opera, which became the hallmark of his brand.
Born on May 11, 1932 in Voghera, Valentino studied fashion in Milan and Paris, worked with great designers such as Jean Dessès and then founded his own fashion house in Rome in 1960.
He was known for the romanticism of his creations, the simplicity that hides intricate details, and the passion for beauty:
"I love beauty. It's not my fault. And I know what women want: they want to be beautiful," is one of his expressions.
Valentino Garavani will be remembered as a fashion icon, a visionary who gave timeless meaning and elegance to the legendary red.
