ROME (AP) – The city of Rome is preparing to pay its final respects to the iconic fashion designer Valentino Garavani, who passed away at the age of 93 at his residence in Rome on Monday. Known for his high-glamour gowns and the signature shade of red that became a symbol of Italian elegance, Valentino left an indelible mark on the fashion world.
Valentino will lie in state at his foundation located in Piazza Mignanelli on Wednesday and Thursday, just a short distance from the renowned Spanish Steps. His funeral service is scheduled for Friday at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in central Rome.
The beloved Italian designer was widely adored, not only by fashion enthusiasts but also by generations of royals, first ladies, and movie stars. His clientele included prominent figures such as Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Julia Roberts, and Queen Rania of Jordan, all of whom praised how his designs made them look and feel their best.
During the public viewing, a large turnout of fashion celebrities, local authorities, and citizens is expected to honor the "last emperor" of Italian fashion. Valentino maintained his atelier in Rome throughout his career, although he frequently showcased his collections in Paris, solidifying his status as a global fashion icon.
Rome's mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, referred to Valentino as one of "Italy's most luminous and beloved figures," emphasizing the strong ties the designer had with the Italian capital. Valentino’s nearly half-century career in fashion began in the 1960s and continued until his retirement in 2008.
Valentino founded his fashion house in 1959 on Rome’s Via Condotti. His timeless designs have made him the go-to designer for red carpet events, ensuring that A-list celebrities turn to him for their award ceremony needs. His exquisite gowns have graced numerous Academy Awards ceremonies; notably, in 2001, Julia Roberts wore a vintage black and white column gown to accept her Best Actress award, while Cate Blanchett donned a butter-yellow silk gown by Valentino when she won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2005.
Alessandro Michele, the current creative director of the Valentino fashion house, took to Instagram to express how he continues to feel Valentino's "gaze" as he designs the upcoming collection. This new collection is set to be presented on March 12 in Rome, marking a departure from the traditional venue of Paris.
Valentino Garavani’s legacy in the fashion industry is unmatched, and his contributions have forever changed the landscape of high fashion. The upcoming ceremonies in Rome are a testament to his enduring influence and the affection the public has for a designer who personified glamour and grace throughout his illustrious career.
