United News of Bangladesh

Valentino Garavani, the celebrated Italian fashion designer whose glamorous gowns dressed generations of royals, first ladies and Hollywood stars, has died at the age of 93. The Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation said in a statement posted on social media that the designer died at his residence in Rome on Monday. No cause of death was disclosed. Universally known simply as Valentino, he was famed for his high-glamour creations, often in his signature shade of “Valentino red”, and remained a dominant force on international runways for nearly half a century. “Valentino Garavani was not only a constant guide and inspiration for all of us, but a true source of light, creativity and vision,” the foundation said. Adored by generations of royals, first ladies and movie stars, Valentino dressed icons ranging from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Julia Roberts to Queen Rania of Jordan and Diana, Princess of Wales. He once said, “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful.” Although Italian-born and based in Rome, Valentino regularly unveiled his collections in Paris, establishing himself as a global symbol of elegance and timeless style. Tributes poured in from across the fashion world. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described him as “an indisputable maestro of eternal style and elegance of Italian high fashion.” Designers, supermodels and celebrities also expressed their sorrow, hailing him as a master of his craft. Born on May 11, 1932, in Voghera in northern Italy, Valentino trained in Milan and Paris before founding the Valentino fashion house on Rome’s Via Condotti in 1959 with his longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti, who managed the business side of the empire. His career spanned from the early 1960s to his retirement in 2008, during which he became the designer of choice for red-carpet events, dressing Oscar winners including Julia Roberts and Cate Blanchett. Valentino’s empire later expanded into ready-to-wear, menswear and accessories, and the brand was sold in 1998 for an estimated 300 million dollars. He continued designing for another decade before stepping down. A public viewing will be held at the Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti Foundation on Wednesday and Thursday, while his funeral is scheduled for Friday in central Rome.