Valentino Garavani’s Legacy Endures as Brand Returns to Rome

Rome bid farewell to Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani, the iconic Italian fashion designer, on January 19, 2026, at the age of 93. His death prompted a period of mourning in the city, including a two-day public viewing at PM23, the headquarters of the Valentino Foundation, near the Spanish Steps and the designer’s original couture house on Via Condotti [Vogue].

A Return to the Roots

In a move reflecting the designer’s deep connection to the city, Valentino is set to present its Fall 2026 ready-to-wear collection in Rome, a rare homecoming that underscores the city’s enduring influence on the brand [Vogue]. This decision marks a departure from the traditional fashion week schedules of Milan and Paris, acknowledging Rome’s unique place in the world of style.

Valentino’s Enduring Influence

Valentino, who founded Valentino S.p.A. In 1960 and served as its creative director until 2007, was renowned for his retro designs and collaborations with celebrities. He is considered a pivotal figure in haute couture [Wikipedia]. He was the first Italian designer to showcase his work on Parisian haute couture catwalks [Wikipedia]. His signature leverage of color, particularly Valentino red, became synonymous with elegance and glamour.

Alessandro Michele’s Vision

Alessandro Michele, who took over as creative director in 2024, presented an autumn/winter collection that explored the tension between his own aesthetic and the established Valentino DNA. The collection, set in the 1980s, celebrated a time when women were “in control of their presence and their body,” featuring clashing jewel tones, draped tunics, and lace-dipped hems [Vogue]. Michele’s background in costume design was evident in the collection’s oversized jewelry and cuffs.

A Legacy in Hollywood

Valentino Garavani played a significant role in establishing a connection between Italian fashion and Hollywood. He famously dressed Elizabeth Taylor for the premiere of Cleopatra and forged a lifelong friendship with Sophia Loren, who wore Valentino when she received her honorary Oscar in 1991 [Vogue]. He was also a pioneer in showcasing vintage gowns on the red carpet, notably dressing Julia Roberts in a 1992 couture dress for the 2001 Academy Awards [Vogue].

The Future of Valentino

Valentino Garavani sold the company to HdP Group for US$300 million in 1998 [Wikipedia]. Kering, the parent company of Gucci, is currently in the process of acquiring Valentino, hoping Michele will replicate his success at Gucci and elevate Valentino to a similar status alongside Dior and Saint Laurent [Vogue]. Despite the challenges posed by the current global climate, Michele remains committed to his vision for the brand.