The house that owns a colour
An authentic Italian fashion stalwart, Valentino Clemente Ludovico Garavani studied fashion from an early age, holding a passion for beautiful design and fashion.
Early days
Working furiously through apprenticeships with fashion houses in Paris, Valentino sketched endlessly between window dressing and greeting clients. Most of these sketches were lost. However, those that remain show the incredible characteristics of Valentino’s style that were to develop. Drawings of layered white pleats and animal prints gave a glimpse into the designer’s passions, and on returning to Rome in 1960, Valentino’s first fashion house opened.
Jacqueline Kennedy
His first breakthrough came in 1964 when Jaqueline Kennedy spotted a beautiful black two-piece ensemble in black organza worn by the twin sister of American Vogue fashion editor and friend of Valentino, Consuelo Crespi. On learning that this outfit was a Valentino’, a key piece from his collection, a model and a sales rep went to showcase his work at Mrs Kennedy’s apartment in New York. Six of Valentino’s black and white haute couture dresses were ordered by Mrs Kennedy and were worn during her year of mourning following the death of her husband, President John F Kennedy. She became a devoted client and lifelong friend, with Valentino later designing the white wedding gown worn by Kennedy at her wedding to Aristotle Onassis.
Red.
Valentino’s success soared, and he lived a hugely flamboyant lifestyle. The Maison produced the most opulent fashion, with a distinct shade of red becoming known as ‘Valentino Red’. His empire grew, and Valentino’s designs became red carpet favourites, with celebrities adorning the grand designs.
Valentino’s retirement
His final haute couture show was presented in Paris in January 2008, receiving a standing ovation as Valentino took his retirement. The show attracted hundreds of notable names to its audience, including Naomi Campbell, Claudia Schiffer and Eva Herzigova.
Valentino Autumn/Winter 2017/18
Haute couture autumn-winter 2017/18 sees blocks of colour, heavy fabrics and layering. Heavy capes and hoods sit alongside whispering fabrics, all devoid of intricate embellishments.
Rockstud and more…
Today the Maison is as successful as ever, having undergone a substantial creative evolution since 2008. With haute couture, Pret-a-porter and accessories lines, the brand’s vision has made Valentino one of the most successful houses in the fashion world, standing among the leaders of international fashion.
