One of the most moving ceremonies in recent years has ended in the Italian capital—the farewell to Valentino Garavani, the man who defined the style of an entire era. The grandeur and drama of this event could be felt in every glance, every gesture of those gathered. Rome, the city where the maestro lived and created, became the place where fashion and art met the personal pain of loss.
Valentino’s death shook not only the world of haute couture but also everyone who was ever touched by his work. At the age of 93, he passed away, leaving behind not just collections, but an entire philosophy of beauty. His final journey began with an intimate ceremony at Piazza Mignanelli, where for two days fans and loved ones could pay their respects. On the casket—a scarlet rose, a symbol of passion and elegance that became the brand’s signature.
Stars and friends
On Friday morning, as a new day was just beginning in Rome, familiar faces gathered at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Among them was actress Anne Hathaway, unable to hold back tears, and style icon Olivia Palermo, who arrived with her husband. Their presence was proof that Valentino was not just a designer but a friend and inspiration to many.
A special place that day was held by Giancarlo Giammetti—Valentino’s partner and companion in life—who stayed close to the coffin. His presence was a reminder of their many years of collaboration and personal devotion. Also by his side were other close friends: designer Michaela Calabresi Marconi and Vernon Bruce Hoeksema, the maestro’s last companion. Their faces reflected a full range of emotions—from sorrow to gratitude.
Memory and symbols
Inside the basilica, an especially solemn atmosphere reigned. The silence, broken only by whispers and muffled sobs, underscored the significance of the moment. Many guests held red roses—a tribute and a symbol of love for the man who made this color iconic. Memories of Valentino echoed in brief speeches, glances, and embraces.
Rome’s mayor Roberto Gualtieri noted that Valentino’s contribution to the city’s culture was beyond measure. His name became synonymous with Italian elegance, and his legacy is now part of the history of not only fashion, but art itself. Ceremony guests did not hide their emotions, as for many, Valentino was not just a couturier but a true mentor and friend.
Legend and farewell
Valentino’s funeral brought together representatives of different generations and professions. Among them were young designers, established masters, and film stars. Each came to express gratitude for inspiration, for style, for the chance to be part of a great history. Anne Hathaway, recalling her friendship with Valentino, shared that he was the one who created her wedding dress, which became a symbol of happiness and beauty.
Bidding farewell to Valentino became not only a personal tragedy for his loved ones, but an event of global significance. In these days, Rome resembled a runway, with friends, colleagues, and admirers taking the place of models, and tears and silence instead of applause. The city will long preserve the memory of the man who taught the world to appreciate beauty in the details.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Valentino Garavani is one of the most influential designers of the 20th century and the founder of the Valentino fashion house. His name became synonymous with Italian luxury and sophistication. Throughout his career, he dressed global celebrities, and his collections consistently caused a sensation at Fashion Weeks. Valentino’s signature red entered history as a symbol of passion and elegance. After stepping down as creative director in 2008, the maestro continued to inspire a new generation of designers and remained a style icon until his last days.
