The End of an Era: Legendary Fashion Icon Valentino Garavani Passes Away at 93
Italian fashion visionary Valentino Garavani died Monday in Rome at age 93, according to a statement released Tuesday on his Instagram account and by his foundation. The announcement read: “Our founder, Valentino Garavani passed away today at his Roman residence, surrounded by his loved ones.”
Gwyneth Paltrow, who worked closely with Garavani for decades, described him as a deeply influential figure in her life. “I was so lucky to know and love Valentino—to know the real man, in private,” she wrote. “The man who was in love with beauty, his family, his muses, his friends. His dogs, his gardens, and a good Hollywood story. I loved him so much. I loved how he always pestered me to ‘at least wear a little mascara’ when I came to dinner. I loved his naughty laugh.”
“This feels like the end of an era,” Paltrow added. “He will be deeply missed by me and all who loved him. Rest in peace, Vava.”
Supermodel Cindy Crawford shared her tribute online, posting photographs with Garavani and reflecting on their professional relationship. “I’m heartbroken to hear of Valentino Garavani’s passing,” she wrote. “He was a true master of his craft, and I will always be grateful for the years I had the privilege of working closely with him.”
Model Coco Rocha emphasized Garavani’s broader impact: “I was lucky to know Valentino, not just as the iconic Roman couturier, but as a warm, generous presence who shaped fashion with grace, discipline, and beauty. His legacy lives on in the restraint, elegance and conviction that defined both the man and his work.”
Over a career spanning more than six decades, Garavani built a global brand synonymous with refined Italian couture and his signature red. He was frequently ranked among the last great designers of his generation alongside Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld.
Garavani dressed prominent figures from film, music, and high society, including Sharon Stone, Nicole Kidman, Barbra Streisand, Sophia Loren, Elizabeth Taylor, and Monica Vitti. He also designed Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress for her 1968 marriage to Aristotle Onassis, Deadline reported.
