Valentino Garavani, the legendary fashion designer, passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 93, in his home in Rome. The news of his death was shared by the Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti, the foundation he established with his close business partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, who was by his side until the end. Garavani’s funeral is scheduled for Friday, where loved ones and admirers will pay their respects to the late designer who left an indelible mark on the fashion world.
Giammetti, in a recent interview with The Business of Fashion in May 2025, reflected on his long and fruitful partnership with Garavani. He recounted how their collaboration began when the designer, facing financial difficulties, approached him with the idea to start afresh, without outside investors. Giammetti recalled a pivotal moment in their journey when former First Lady, Jackie Kennedy, started wearing Valentino’s creations in 1968, just a year after the tragic death of her husband, John F. Kennedy. Giammetti noted that Kennedy’s preference for all-black or black-and-white pieces marked a turning point for the brand, signaling their arrival into the world of high fashion.
One of the most iconic moments in Valentino’s history came when Jackie Kennedy chose to wear a laced two-piece wedding dress designed by Valentino for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968. The dress, featuring a high-neck top and pleated skirt, set a new trend in bridal fashion, inspiring countless brides to opt for similar styles. This historical piece later fetched a significant sum at auction, highlighting the enduring appeal of Valentino’s designs.
As the fashion world mourns the loss of Valentino Garavani, his legacy lives on through his timeless creations and the lasting impact he has had on the industry. Giammetti, in a poignant post on his personal Instagram, captured the essence of their partnership with a simple caption: “forever.” Their contribution to the world of fashion was recognized with the prestigious John B Fairchild Honor for Lifetime Achievement award in 2025, underscoring the profound influence they have had on the fashion landscape. Valentino Garavani may no longer be with us, but his innovative spirit and groundbreaking designs will continue to inspire generations to come.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.