The fashion and entertainment world is mourning the death of Valentino Garavani, the iconic Italian designer and founder of the Valentino fashion house. He died at the age of 93, his team announced on January 19.
Surrounded by loved ones, Valentino passed away at his home in Rome. The news appeared in a statement shared on his personal Instagram account and by the Valentino Foundation.
“Our founder, Valentino Garavani passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones,” the statement said.
Following the announcement, the fashion house confirmed that the lying in state will take place at PM23, Piazza Mignanelli 23, on January 21 and 22, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Later, the funeral service will be held on January 23 at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome.
Tributes Pour In From Fashion and Film
Soon after the news broke, leaders from fashion and entertainment shared their grief. Former Valentino creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli reacted with a broken-heart emoji under the announcement.
Meanwhile, Valentino’s influence on Hollywood also drew attention. Over the years, he dressed stars such as Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Nicole Kidman, and Anne Hathaway.
Gwyneth Paltrow Shares a Personal Goodbye
Among the most emotional tributes came from Gwyneth Paltrow, a close friend of the designer. She posted a message on Instagram alongside a photo of herself kissing Valentino’s cheek.
“I was so lucky to know and love Valentino, to know the real man, in private,” Paltrow wrote.
Additionally, she described his love for beauty, family, friends, dogs, gardens, and Hollywood stories. She also recalled how he often urged her to wear “at least a little mascara” to dinner.
“This feels like the end of an era,” she added. “He will be deeply missed. Rest in peace, Vava.”
Cindy Crawford and Models Remember His Grace
Similarly, supermodel Cindy Crawford honored Valentino with a series of photos from their years working together.
“I’m heartbroken to hear of Valentino Garavani’s passing,” Crawford wrote.
“He was a true master of his craft.”
In addition, model Coco Rocha described Valentino as a giant of the fashion world. She praised his warmth, discipline, and timeless sense of elegance.
Designers Reflect on a Lasting Influence
Notably, designer Zac Posen reflected on Valentino’s belief in glamour and romance.
“With him, an era of rare elegance has ended,” Posen wrote.
“As a result, the world feels less beautiful without him.”
Meanwhile, fashion publicist Kelly Cutrone shared a personal memory of pitching a campaign for the Valentino brand. She described the experience as one of the most meaningful moments of her career.
A Legacy That Will Endure
For decades, Valentino Garavani shaped global fashion through refined silhouettes and bold color. He became widely known for his signature Valentino Red and classic designs.
Ultimately, his work defined elegance and femininity across generations. As tributes continue worldwide, the industry remembers Valentino not only as a designer, but also as a cultural icon whose influence will endure.