In January 2026, the fashion world was shaken by the news: Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian couturier, had passed away at the age of 93 in his Roman residence. His death was not only a personal loss for his loved ones and fans but also an event capable of shifting the balance of power in the luxury industry. Over many decades, Garavani turned his name into a byword for elegance and his personal fortune into one of the most discussed topics among experts and collectors.
The value of his assets is staggering: 1.5 billion euros. This is not simply the result of successful collections, but the outcome of a carefully crafted strategy in which every investment and purchase was part of a larger plan. Even after stepping down as creative director, his brand continued to generate hundreds of millions annually, while Valentino himself enjoyed a life surrounded by art, luxury, and loyal friends.
A Real Estate Empire
Valentino was renowned not only for his impeccable taste in fashion but also for his passion for unique homes. His portfolio included mansions in London, Rome, New York, and Gstaad, Switzerland. A special place in this collection was held by the 17th-century Château de Wideville near Paris, which he purchased in the mid-1990s and transformed into a true style museum, entrusting the interiors to the famed Henri Samuel. Each house reflected his character: a mix of classic, luxury, and modern comfort.
But his passions went far beyond real estate. The designer also owned a private jet and the TM BLUE ONE superyacht, custom-built and adorned with works by Andy Warhol. Even the yacht’s name paid tribute to his parents, whose initials it bears. These assets became not only symbols of his success but also of the impeccable taste that Garavani displayed in all things.
Personal Life and Legacy
At the center of Valentino’s personal and professional life was always Giancarlo Giammetti – a friend, former lover, and constant business partner. Their relationship, which began romantically, grew into a strong partnership based on trust and shared goals. Together they built not only a fashion empire but also a complex asset management structure to prevent public disputes after the designer’s death.
Garavani had no direct heirs. His entire fortune is managed through private trusts established together with Giammetti. This approach allowed them to retain control of the brand and ensure its continued growth without risking its reputation or financial stability. Such foresight is rare in the fashion world, further highlighting Valentino’s unique stature.
Brand Sale and New Owners
In 1998, ten years before his retirement, Valentino sold his brand for 300 million euros. After that, he created his final collection and officially stepped away from the business in 2008. Alessandra Facchinetti briefly took his place, but soon the brand came under new ownership.
Today, control of the Valentino house is shared between the Qatari company Mayhoola (70%) and French giant Kering (30%). It is already known that by 2028 Kering can fully acquire the brand, potentially leading to new changes in management and strategy. However, the name Valentino still stands as a symbol of haute couture and remains a style icon for millions of fans worldwide.
Clients and recognition
Over six decades, Valentino has dressed the world’s most influential women. His clients have included Kim Kardashian, Victoria Beckham, Princess Diana, Sophia Loren, Jacqueline Kennedy, as well as Spanish style icons Naty Abascal and Rosario Nadal. After his death, many celebrities offered condolences, and Gwyneth Paltrow specifically noted his passion for beauty and life.
Valentino’s legacy is not only billions and collections, but also a unique philosophy that blends precision, passion, and the pursuit of perfection. His contribution to global fashion is immeasurable, and the capital management system he established will serve as a model for future generations of designers and entrepreneurs.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Valentino Garavani is one of the most influential designers of the 20th and 21st centuries, and the founder of the eponymous fashion house, renowned not only for its luxurious collections but also for a unique business approach. His brand remains a symbol of Italian elegance, while the aesthetic he created continues to inspire leading designers and haute couture enthusiasts worldwide.
