At a Glance
- Italian designer Valentino Garavani passed away at 93 on Jan. 19.
- A funeral at Rome’s Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri drew fashion icons and Hollywood stars.
- His legacy lives on through iconic gowns worn at the Oscars, Met Gala and by high-profile figures.
Valentino Garavani, the Italian designer who earned the nickname “Last Emperor of Fashion,” died of natural causes at his Rome residence on Jan. 19. The world’s fashion community gathered in Rome to honor his life and work, marking a moment of collective mourning for a man whose influence spanned decades. His death at 93 was a significant loss for the fashion world.
A Final Farewell in Rome
The funeral service took place at the central Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, a site chosen for its solemn atmosphere and proximity to the Valentino Foundation headquarters. A two-day public viewing had preceded the ceremony, allowing admirers to pay their respects before the final procession. The service was conducted in a subdued tone, with mourners wearing either black or Valentino’s signature red.
Who Gathered
Attendees included some of the most influential figures in fashion and film.
- Tom Ford
- Donatella Versace
- Anna Wintour, former Vogue Editor-in-Chief
- Anne Hathaway, who wore a Valentino dress on her wedding day
The presence of these icons underscored the designer’s reach across multiple creative industries. Their attendance highlighted the lasting impact of Valentino’s work on both fashion and film.
Fashion Icons Pay Tribute
“Now he rests forever surrounded by eternal beauty, a most fitting next chapter for the one true Emperor who gifted us all a legacy of unparalleled magnificence… I love you my darling, and I miss you already,” said Anne Hathaway in an Instagram tribute. Her words captured the personal connection many felt toward the designer, many of whom had worn his creations on the biggest stages. The tribute reflected the deep admiration of those who had worn his creations on the biggest stages.
Red or Black
While most mourners opted for black, some chose Valentino’s signature red, a color that had become synonymous with the fashion house. The contrast highlighted the duality of grief and admiration that surrounded the event. Fans also gathered outside the church, creating a visual tableau of respect.
Valentino’s Enduring Influence
Valentino’s eponymous label has been a staple at the Oscars and the Met Gala for decades. The label’s signature red and black palette has been worn by celebrities at these events. The brand’s enduring presence demonstrates the lasting influence of the designer’s work.
Public Viewing and Final Tribute
The two-day public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters allowed fans to pay their respects in a communal setting. Mourners left flowers, handwritten notes, and personal messages for the designer. The gathering outside the basilica created a visual tableau of respect, with attendees in black and red.
Key Moments
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 19 | Valentino Garavani’s death at 93 |
| Jan. 20 | Two-day public viewing at Valentino Foundation |
| Jan. 21 | Funeral at Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri |
| Jan. 21 | Tribute from Anne Hathaway on Instagram |
These dates map the progression of the mourning process.
Legacy Highlights
- Red Carpet Appearances – Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, Pedro Pascal |
- Award Shows – Academy Awards, Met Gala |
- High-Profile Weddings – Jackie Kennedy Onassis’s second wedding to Aristotle Onassis |
- Fashion House – Valentino Foundation headquarters, central Basilica venue |
- Color Symbolism – Red and black
Final Takeaways
Valentino Garavani’s passing marks a pivotal moment for the fashion world. The funeral’s attendance by top fashion and film figures highlighted the breadth of his influence. The designer’s legacy continues through iconic garments worn at the Oscars, Met Gala, and by high-profile figures. The community’s response, from public viewing to Instagram tributes, underscores the lasting impact of his work.
Fashion House Legacy
Valentino Garavani’s brand has been a staple at the Oscars and the Met Gala for decades. The brand’s signature red and black palette has been worn by celebrities at these events. This consistent presence underscores the designer’s impact on contemporary fashion.
Public Reaction
The public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters allowed fans to leave flowers, handwritten notes, and personal messages. The gathering outside the basilica created a visual tableau of respect, with attendees in black and red. This communal act of remembrance highlights the deep connection between the designer and his audience.
Impact on Red Carpet
Valentino’s work has been a recurring presence at major award shows. Julia Roberts wore a Valentino gown at the Oscars, while Cate Blanchett and Pedro Pascal also showcased the designer’s creations at the Met Gala. These appearances underscore the designer’s influence on the global red-carpet aesthetic.
Legacy in Color
Valentino’s signature color palette-red and black-has become synonymous with the brand. During the funeral, mourners wore either black or red to honor the designer’s legacy. The choice of color reflected both mourning and celebration. This symbolic use of color highlights the lasting impact of the designer’s aesthetic.
Legacy in Media
Valentino’s influence extended beyond fashion into popular culture. The brand’s iconic status continues to inspire designers, stylists, and artists worldwide.
Legacy in Public Memory
The public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters allowed fans to leave flowers, handwritten notes, and personal messages. The gathering outside the basilica created a visual tableau of respect, with attendees in black and red. This communal act of remembrance highlights the deep connection between the designer and his audience.
