Valentino Garavani was born in Voghera, Italy on May 11th, 1932.
His first job was with couturier Jean Desses in 1950 – he was just 18 years old!
In 1960, Valentino met Giancarlo Giammetti in Rome. Giammetti, an architecture student, quickly became Valentino's partner, both professionally and romantically.
His first job was with couturier Jean Desses in 1950 – he was just 18 years old!
In 1960, Valentino met Giancarlo Giammetti in Rome. Giammetti, an architecture student, quickly became Valentino's partner, both professionally and romantically.
Valentino Garavani
Valentino's international debut took place in 1962, at the Pitti Palace in Florence. He got famous for his full-length skirts, which stood out from the minis that were popular at the time. Women have dreamt of wearing one of the fashion house's storied gowns ever since.
Garavani is an old hand at exhibitions - he celebrated his 50th birthday with a major exhibition at Somerset House, took over Rome's Ara Pacis for his 45th anniversary in 2007, and launched the Valentino Garavani Virtual Museum in late 2011. In 1991, Valentino held an exhibition in Rome called "Valentino: 30 Years of Magic"
Exhibition in Rome called "Valentino: 30 Years of Magic"
Took over Rome's Ara Pacis for his 45th anniversary in 2007
Exhibition at Somerset House
He announced on September 4th, 2007 that he would retire in January 2008. This final show, presented at the Musée Rodin in Paris, featured legendary models, who had worked with Valentino throughout their runway careers.
However, that despite being retired, he still makes sketches because of his love for design and drawing.
