Rome, January 20, 2026 — Italian fashion icon Valentino Garavani, the master couturier renowned for his glamorous red-carpet gowns and the iconic "Valentino Red," has died at the age of 93. His foundation announced the news, confirming that he passed away peacefully at his home in Rome on January 19, 2026, surrounded by loved ones.
The Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation described him as "a true source of light, creativity and vision," highlighting his enduring influence as a constant guide and inspiration.
Here are some stunning examples of Valentino's signature style, featuring his beloved red gowns that became synonymous with timeless elegance: 0 "LARGE" 1 "LARGE"
Known simply as Valentino, the designer built a legacy spanning nearly half a century, dressing royalty, first ladies, and Hollywood stars who trusted his unfailing ability to make women feel beautiful. As he famously said: "I know what women want. They want to be beautiful."
His creations adorned icons including Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Julia Roberts, Gwyneth Paltrow, Cate Blanchett, and Queen Rania of Jordan. Valentino's elegant, high-glamour designs — often avoiding trends in favor of classic sophistication — made him the undisputed king of the red carpet.
Julia Roberts famously wore a vintage black-and-white Valentino column gown to accept her Best Actress Oscar for Erin Brockovich in 2001, while other stars like Cate Blanchett chose his butter-yellow silk for their own award-winning moments.
Here are memorable red-carpet moments featuring Valentino's designs and the designer himself: 6 "LARGE"
The designer with actress Gwyneth Paltrow, one of his longtime muses: 3 "LARGE"
Valentino's signature red gowns on the runway — a shade that became a global fashion emblem: 9 "LARGE"
Often ranked alongside Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld as one of the last great couturiers of the pre-commercial era, Valentino retired in 2008 after transforming his Roman atelier into a worldwide luxury empire.
His body will lie in repose at the foundation's headquarters in Rome on Wednesday and Thursday (January 21-22), with a funeral service scheduled for Friday at the Basilica Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Piazza della Repubblica.
The fashion world has lost a true maestro whose vision of feminine glamour will continue to inspire generations. Rest in peace, Valentino.
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