Italian couture legend Valentino Garavani has passed away at the age of 93, marking the end of an era in both fashion and luxury lifestyle culture. The Fondazione Valentino Garavani e Giancarlo Giammetti announced that the designer died on 20 January at his private residence in Rome, peacefully and in the presence of his loved ones.
Born in 1932 in Voghera, near Milan, Valentino showed an early devotion to elegance and craftsmanship. After initial training in Italy, he refined his skills in Paris at the École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne. His return to Italy would soon change fashion history, as his name became globally associated with refinement, romance and impeccable tailoring.
Over the decades, Valentino dressed some of the most influential women of his time. His work accompanied historic personal moments, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis’ wedding, and unforgettable public ones, such as Julia Roberts’ appearance at the 2001 Academy Awards in a striking vintage Valentino gown.
Away from the atelier, Valentino was equally passionate about life at sea. At a time when designer-owned yachts were rare, he commissioned the 46.32-metre T.M. Blue One, launched in 1988 by Italian builder Picchiotti. Designed externally by Gerhard Gilgenast with interiors by American architect Peter Marino, the yacht reflected the same understated sophistication found in his couture. Named in tribute to his parents, the vessel accommodated 10 guests and cruised the Mediterranean in effortless style, powered by twin Caterpillar engines.
The foundation has confirmed that a public lying in state will be held at Piazza Mignanelli 23 in Rome on 21 and 22 January, from 11:00 to 18:00. Funeral services will take place on Friday 23 January at 11:00 at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri.
Unico Yachting joins the international fashion and yachting communities in remembering Valentino Garavani as a visionary who embodied elegance on land and at sea. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and all those who continue to carry his legacy forward.
