The fashion world is mourning the loss of Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer who dressed royalty, Hollywood icons, and generations of stars. Garavani, founder of the Valentino fashion house, died at his Roman residence on January 19, surrounded by loved ones. He was 93.
Tributes From Stars
Kim Kardashian was among the many celebrities paying tribute. Sharing a broken heart emoji and a photo with Garavani on Instagram, she wrote: “You were magical, so special. Thank you for your magic.”
Gwyneth Paltrow also remembered the designer fondly, posting a selfie with him and reflecting on their friendship. “I was so lucky to know and love Valentino — to know the real man, in private,” she said. Paltrow described him as someone who adored beauty, family, his muses, and even his dogs and gardens. She added, “This feels like the end of an era. He will be deeply missed.” Supermodel Cindy Crawford shared her heartbreak, calling Garavani “a true master of his craft” and expressing gratitude for the years she worked closely with him.
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A Legacy of Style
Garavani’s career spanned decades, with clients ranging from Princess Diana and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Cate Blanchett and Anne Hathaway. His designs became synonymous with elegance and timeless glamour. Brand ambassador Colman Domingo praised Garavani for inspiring people “to be beautiful,” saying he created fantasies that became reality. Sarah Jessica Parker echoed the sentiment, thanking him for his “extraordinary talent” and “decadent generosity.”
Industry Reflections
Valentino’s influence extended far beyond his collections. Alessandro Michele, creative director at Valentino, described him as “almost a mythical figure” whose gentleness left a lasting impression. Former creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli called him a mentor, saying, “You taught me that fashion is joy, though a profoundly serious kind of joy.”
Enduring Impact
Even in recent years, Valentino’s designs continued to dominate red carpets. At the Golden Globe Awards earlier this month, stars including Colman Domingo, Hannah Einbinder, Natasha Lyonne, and Adam Brody wore Valentino looks. Garavani’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through the artistry he brought to fashion and the countless lives he touched.
