At a Glance
- Valentino Garavani died at 93 on Jan. 19.
- Fashion icons Tom Ford, Donatella Versace, Anna Wintour and Hollywood stars Anne Hathaway attended his Rome funeral.
- The ceremony at Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri followed a two-day public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters.
Why it matters: The passing of the “Last Emperor of Fashion” marks the end of an era that shaped red-black couture and global celebrity style.
The world of fashion and Hollywood mourned the death of Italian designer Valentino Garavani at 93 on Jan. 19. The designer, known as the “Last Emperor of Fashion,” was honored in a solemn ceremony in Rome attended by leading fashion houses and film stars. The funeral, held at the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, followed a two-day public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters.
Funeral Setting
The ceremony took place inside the central Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri, a historic church that had hosted many significant ceremonies. The venue was chosen for its grandeur and its proximity to the Valentino Foundation headquarters where the public viewing had been held. The ceremony featured a portrait of the designer beside the coffin, a tribute that highlighted his lasting influence on fashion.
A short procession carried the coffin from the Foundation to the church. The arrival was marked by a low hum of reverence, with mourners lining the steps. The portrait of Valentino was displayed prominently, allowing attendees to reflect on his signature style.
Attendees
The event drew an eclectic mix of attendees from the worlds of fashion, film, and royalty. Among the fashion leaders were Tom Ford, Donatella Versace, and former Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. Hollywood stars such as Anne Hathaway, who wore Valentino on her wedding day, also paid their respects.
- Tom Ford – renowned designer and director.
- Donatella Versace – chief creative officer of the Versace house.
- Anna Wintour – former Vogue editor-in-chief.
- Anne Hathaway – Academy Award-winning actress.
Other notable figures included fashion editors, stylists, and members of the Italian royal family, all of whom highlighted the designer’s global reach.
Tribute and Tributes
Anne Hathaway posted an Instagram tribute that read, “Now he rests forever surrounded by eternal beauty, a most fitting next chapter for the one true Emperor who gifted us all a legacy of unparalleled magnificence… I love you my darling, and I miss you already.” The tribute reflected the deep personal connection many felt toward the designer. Attendees wore either black or Valentino’s signature red, honoring the designer’s iconic color palette.
The red garments were a visual nod to the house’s logo and to the boldness that defined Valentino’s collections. Black, the traditional color of mourning, was also worn, creating a striking contrast that underscored the duality of grief and celebration.
Legacy
Valentino’s eponymous label has been a staple at the Oscars and Met Gala, with stars such as Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, and Pedro Pascal donning his creations. The designer’s influence extended beyond fashion, reaching into the world of cinema and high society. Jackie Kennedy Onassis famously wore Valentino for her second wedding to Aristotle Onassis, underscoring the designer’s reach into American royalty.
The label’s presence at major events has cemented its status as a cultural icon. Designers and stylists continue to cite Valentino as a source of inspiration, and his signature red-black aesthetic remains a staple in contemporary collections.
Final Details
The designer died of natural causes at his residence in Rome. The funeral was conducted after a two-day public viewing, allowing fans and colleagues to pay final respects. A portrait of Valentino was displayed beside his coffin, and mourners gathered outside the church to honor the last Emperor of Fashion.
The public viewing at the Valentino Foundation headquarters provided a space for the public to pay homage, with thousands of visitors lining the doors. The Foundation’s headquarters, located in the heart of Rome, served as a fitting backdrop for the designer’s final farewell.
Key Takeaways
- Valentino Garavani passed away at 93 on Jan. 19.
- His funeral in Rome drew top fashion names and Hollywood stars.
- The ceremony highlighted his signature red-black aesthetic and enduring legacy.
- Fans and colleagues gathered at the Valentino Foundation and the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri to pay respects.
- The designer’s influence spans fashion, film, and high society, with his label still celebrated worldwide.
