Valentino: Red-hot elegance
Above: Valentino standing in front of a display of several of his designs in his signature color
Valentino Garavani, a name that echoes with high fashion and timeless elegance, has crafted an iconic brand with a rich history spanning over six decades. Its journey through the world of haute couture is a captivating tale of passion, artistry, and enduring style, inspiring generations of fashion enthusiasts.
Before starting his own fashion house, Valentino worked in Paris under Balenciaga, Jean Desses, and Guy Laroche until he returned to Italy in 1959. In 1960, Valentino and his partner Giancarlo Giammetti opened Maison Valentino, fulfilling his childhood dream of leaving his mark on the fashion industry.
Perhaps his most recognizable contribution to the world of fashion was Valentino's introduction of the color "Rosso Valentino," a shade of red that has since become synonymous with the brand. Valentino Red became one of the most iconic colors in fashion. Valentino's ability to portray passion and sensuality through his designs by using this defining color became one of his calling cards in design.
“I think that a woman dressed in red is always magnificent.” – Valentino Garavani
Above: 80s Valentino Show
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Valentino continued to expand and innovate, introducing collections that celebrated the female form. His impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail earned him a loyal following, including celebrities like Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, and Jackie Kennedy.
Left: Audrey Hepburn wearing Valentino for Vogue Italia 1969, Right: Elizabeth Taylor’s Valentino Dress for the Spartacus Premiere 1961
Valentino has said that he owes much of his success to Jackie Kennedy, or Jackie O. The September after she left the White House, Jackie ordered six haute couture dresses from Valentino and continued to wear them almost exclusively for the next few years. Jackie even wore a Valentino dress for her second wedding to Aristotle Onassis in 1968.
Left: Jackie O’ dressed in Valentino at her second wedding, 1968, Middle: Jackie O’ wearing Valentino in Cambodia, 1967
Right: Jackie O wearing Valentino at the Met Gala, 1979
Through the 80s, Valentino's brand continued to expand globally, reflecting the changing times with his designs. His creations remained a staple on red carpets and in the wardrobes of the world's most stylish women, connecting fashion enthusiasts worldwide. Notably, towards the end of his career, Valentino forged a lasting relationship with actress Anne Hathaway, who he considered to be a daughter figure.
Left: Anne Hathaway in a custom Valentino wedding gown, 2012, Middle: Anne Hathaway wearing Valentino at the 2007 Academy Awards, Right: Anne Hathaway accompanied by Valentino himself at the 2013 Met Gala.
After over four decades at the forefront of fashion, Valentino announced his retirement in 2007. However, the brand continues to flourish under the creative direction of Pierpaolo Piccioli, who has maintained Valentino's spirit while infusing modern elements into the collections. Piccioli's recent "Un Château" Fall/Winter 2023-24 couture show did so well that it received a standing ovation from Anna Wintour, one of only five standing ovations she has given out throughout her career.
Valentino's brand remains a symbol of his enduring love for fashion, and its creations continue to make their way onto the backs of women with a passion for luxury and elegance. Valentino Garavani’s dedication to perfection and detail led him to be one of the last designers to create his garments entirely by hand, a tradition that continues to this day in the Valentino Atelier in Rome. Valentino's history is not just about clothing; it's a tale of unwavering commitment to beauty and craftsmanship.
