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Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani dies aged 93
PA Media
The founder of the luxury fashion house and brand Valentino died in Rome on Monday.
Received: 18:20:32 on 19th January 2026
Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani has died aged 93, his foundation said.
The co-founder of the luxury fashion house and brand Valentino died on Monday surrounded by his loved ones at his residence in Rome, a statement shared on Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation Instagram account said.
The designer, known for his statement Valentino Red shade, shaped high fashion throughout the late 20th century after launching his brand in 1960, with royals, first ladies and Hollywood stars going on to wear his brand including Diana, Princess of Wales, Elizabeth Taylor and former US first lady Jacqueline “Jackie” Kennedy Onassis.
In a post shared on Monday, his foundation announced that Valentino will be lying in state at the foundation’s headquarters on Piazza Mignanelli on Wednesday January 21 and Thursday January 22.
The funeral service will take place the following day, Friday January 23, at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and Martyrs in Rome’s Piazza della Repubblica.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni paid tribute to the designer in a post on X and said: “Valentino, undisputed master of style and elegance and eternal symbol of Italian high fashion.
“Today Italy loses a legend, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. Thank you for everything.”