Valentino Garavani, or simply ‘Valentino’, is one of the most influential fashion designers of all time. For over a half century, Valentino has been crafting some of the most iconic garments and accessories that are coveted by many. From red carpet gowns to ready-to-wear collections and perfumes, it would be tough to mention fashion without mentioning Valentino. In this blog post, we will explore the life and work of Valentino Garavani; from his early successes to his recent works and influence across the fashion industry. Read on to learn more about this legendary designer.
Who is Valentino Garavani?
Valentino Garavani is an Italian fashion designer. He is the founder of the Valentino brand and company. His main lines include Valentino, Valentino Garavani, Valentino Roma, and R.E.D. Valentino. He is also known for his haute couture designs, which are particularly popular with celebrities.
Born in Voghera, Italy in 1932, Garavani began his career working for a number of fashion houses in Milan, including those of Giorgio Armani and Franco Moschino. In 1960, he moved to Paris to open his own fashion house. His first collection was met with great success and led to him being named as one of the “Big Four” fashion designers, along with Yves Saint Laurent, Karl Lagerfeld, and Hubert de Givenchy.
Garavani’s designs are often described as being very feminine and glamorous. He is known for using a lot of red in his designs, which has led to him being nicknamed “the red king”. He has also used a lot of other bright colors in his collections over the years.
Garavani retired from designing in 2007 but continues to be involved with the brand that bears his name. In 2016, a documentary film about his life and work titled “Valentino: The Last Emperor” was released.
His early life and career
Valentino Garavani was born on May 11, 1932 in Voghera, Italy. His father, Giorgio Garavani, was a shoe-maker and his mother, Teresa Garavani (née Simoncini), a seamstress. He has an older sister, Giovanna. Due to the economic state of post-war Italy, Valentino’s parents could not afford to send him to a traditional design school and he instead apprenticed under several high-profile designers including Jean Dessès, Cristobal Balenciaga and Pierre Cardin before eventually opening his own couture house in Rome in 1959.
During his early career Valentino created dresses for the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Jackie Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor which helped him to gain international notoriety. In 1962 he moved his base of operations to Paris where he continued to enjoy success with clients such as Jacqueline de Ribes and Faye Dunaway. By the 1970s Valentino had become one of the world’s most sought-after designers and had dressed some of the most famous women of the era including Sophia Loren, Greta Garbo and Marguerite Chamberlain.
In 1971 he launched his first ready-to-wear collection followed by a line of fragrances in 1982. In recent years Valentino has retired from active design but still remains involved with his brand through licensing agreements. The House of Valentino is currently headed by creative directors Maria Grazia Chi
His design style
In his designs, Valentino is known for his use of red. He often uses the color in lavish garments and accessories, such as his signature red dresses. In addition to red, Valentino also frequently incorporates black and white into his designs. His style is generally very elegant and classic, with a focus on quality construction and materials.
Some of his most famous designs
Valentino’s most famous designs include his “V” logo, his line of “Valentino red” dresses, and his line of perfume. He has also designed costumes for many famous films, including “The Great Gatsby” and “My Fair Lady”.
His legacy
Valentino Garavani is one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century. He is known for his elegant, feminine designs and his use of high-quality fabrics and materials. His legacy continues to influence the fashion industry today.
Valentino was born in 1932 in Voghera, Italy. He began his career working for fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli in Paris. He later moved to Rome, where he established his own fashion house in 1959.
Valentino’s designs were popular among celebrities and socialites, and he quickly gained a reputation as a leading couturier. His style was characterized by flowing gowns, delicate fabrics, and a focus on feminine beauty. He became known for his ” Valentino red” dresses, which were often worn by Hollywood stars on the red carpet.
In 2008, Valentino retired from designing, but his legacy continues to be celebrated in the fashion world. His iconic designs have been referenced by many modern designers, and his work has been exhibited in major museums around the world.