Which Italian fashion designer, founder of an iconic luxury house, died at age 93 in January 2026?

The Italian fashion designer who passed away at age 93 in January 2026 was Valentino Garavani. Often known simply by his first name, Valentino was a titan in the world of haute couture, creating an iconic luxury house that bore his name. His designs were synonymous with elegance, glamour, and a distinctive shade of red, now famously known as "Valentino Red," which he introduced in his very first collection in 1959.

Born in Voghera, Italy, in 1932, Valentino Garavani's passion for fashion blossomed early. He honed his craft in Paris before returning to Rome to open his own atelier in 1960, establishing Maison Valentino with his longtime business partner, Giancarlo Giammetti. His sophisticated gowns quickly garnered a loyal following among the international elite, including royalty, first ladies, and Hollywood stars.

Throughout his nearly five-decade career, Valentino dressed some of the most prominent women in the world. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis famously wore a Valentino wedding dress for her marriage to Aristotle Onassis in 1968, and his creations graced countless red carpets, including Julia Roberts' Oscar-winning moment in 2001. His dedication to timeless beauty and exquisite craftsmanship left an indelible mark on the fashion industry, solidifying his legacy as a master couturier.