Valentino Garavani is one of the most famous and influential fashion designers in the world. His name is synonymous with elegance, glamour and sophistication. For over 60 years, he has created stunning dresses for the world’s most beautiful women, from Hollywood stars to queens. His trademark is the bright “Valentino red” (rosso Valentino), which he has used in many of his collections. In this article we will take a look at his life, career and legacy.
Valentino was born on May 11, 1932 in Voghera, Italy. As a child he was interested in fashion and art. He left home in 1949 to study fashion design in Milan. After graduating, he moved to Paris, where he worked at several couture houses, including Jean Dessès and Guy Laroche. There he learned the techniques and craft of haute couture and developed his own style.
In 1959 he returned to Italy and founded his own fashion house in Rome. He presented his first collection in 1960 at the Palazzo Pitti in Florence. His designs were an immediate success and attracted the attention of the international press and celebrities. He was praised for his feminine and luxurious aesthetic, inspired by the Italian Renaissance and Roman dolce vita.
One of his most loyal clients was actress Elizabeth Taylor, who met him while filming “Cleopatra” in Rome in 1964. She wore his dresses on many public occasions and made him famous worldwide. Another milestone in his career was the “White Collection” of 1968, considered one of the most beautiful collections in fashion history. It included a white wedding dress with a five-meter veil worn by Jackie Kennedy at her wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
Valentino worked closely with his business partner and life partner Giancarlo Giammetti, who helped him build his empire. He expanded into prêt-à-porter, accessories, perfume and home textiles. He opened boutiques around the world and won numerous awards for his work, including the Neiman Marcus Award.
In 2007, Valentino decided to retire from the fashion industry. He showed his last haute couture show in January 2008 at the Musée Rodin in Paris. The show was a tribute to his career and featured 75 of his most iconic dresses. He was given a standing ovation by his colleagues, friends and admirers.
Valentino is still a living legend of fashion today. His style is timeless and unmistakable. He has influenced and shaped generations of designers. Today, his fashion house is led by Pierpaolo Piccioli, who respects and carries on his vision. Valentino is not just a name, but a synonym for beauty and excellence.
