Valentino Garavani, the legendary fashion designer, was honored in a moving service held at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome on January 23, 2024. His body had been laid in state near the Spanish Steps, where thousands gathered over two days to pay their respects. Valentino, known for his unparalleled contributions to haute couture, was the first Italian designer to gain prominence in French fashion during the 1950s.
The atmosphere outside the basilica was filled with high-profile mourners, including Valentino’s longtime business partner, Giancarlo Giammetti, and his current partner, Bruce Hoeksema. Giammetti played a crucial role in navigating the fashion industry throughout Valentino’s career, guiding the brand until its sale in 2008. As an honor guard, two carabinieri stood at the church doors, their scarlet capes echoing Valentino’s iconic “Fiesta red,” a shade that became synonymous with his work.
Inside the basilica, attendees included notable figures from the fashion and entertainment industries. Alessandro Michele, the current creative director of Valentino, and actress Anne Hathaway arrived together, highlighting the designer’s lasting influence. Hathaway, who famously appeared in “The Devil Wears Prada,” wore a Valentino topcoat, underscoring the bond she shared with the designer, who often dressed her for red carpet events.
Valentino’s legacy extends beyond his flamboyant creations; it encompasses a business empire that he built alongside Giammetti. In 1998, they sold the brand for a reported $300 million to the Italian conglomerate HdP, which later sold it to the Marzotto Group for $3.5 billion in 2007. Currently, the brand is jointly owned by Qatari investors and the Kering company, which retains the option to acquire full ownership by 2028.
The designer’s eye for detail and love of luxurious fabrics created an impressive client list, including Jacqueline Kennedy, Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, and Julia Roberts. Valentino’s craftsmanship and distinctive style ensured that he maintained a dedicated following throughout his five-decade career.
Giammetti’s encouragement for Valentino to expand into fragrances and accessories helped broaden the brand’s appeal, making it accessible to a wider audience. This strategic direction played a crucial role in the brand’s enduring success, a testament to Valentino’s vision and Giammetti’s guidance.
Valentino was known for his reserved public persona, which translated into the universal appeal of his designs. He famously critiqued fashion trends that he deemed unrefined, stating, “I cannot see women destroyed, not well combed or looking strange and stupid in make-up and dresses that make the body look ridiculous.” His commitment to elegance was evident even as industry competitors paid their respects, with many opting for understated attire at the service.
As the fashion world prepares for the upcoming Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week from January 26 to 29, Michele is poised to carry Valentino’s legacy forward, celebrating the designer’s impact on the industry. The tributes pouring in from around the globe reflect not just the loss of a fashion icon but the enduring influence of a man who redefined elegance and style.
