Italian Fashion Great Valentino Dead at 93

ITALY – Legendary Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani has died at the age of 93.

The founder of the iconic Valentino brand passed away at his home in Rome, surrounded by family, according to his foundation.

Valentino was a giant of haute couture, credited with building a global fashion empire and defining the signature shade known as “Valentino red.”

He was often mentioned alongside Giorgio Armani and Karl Lagerfeld as one of the last great designers from a pre-commercial era of fashion.

Over his career, Valentino dressed global icons from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis to Elizabeth Taylor, and designed gowns for Oscar winners including Julia Roberts and Cate Blanchett.

Lying in state is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, with his funeral set for Friday in Rome.