The world of fashion and Hollywood came together Friday to honour Valentino Garavani, the legendary Italian designer who passed away Monday at the age of 93. The funeral, held at Rome’s Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and of the Martyrs, saw mourners paying homage to a man whose designs defined elegance for generations.

Among those in attendance were Anne Hathaway and her husband Adam Shulman, as well as fashion icons Donatella Versace, Tom Ford, Alessandro Michele, Pier Paolo Piccioli, Anna Fendi, Brunello Cucinelli, and editor Anna Wintour. Many of the guests dressed in black, while a few wore accents of Valentino’s signature red, from hats to scarves, as a symbolic nod to the designer’s enduring style.

Valentino, whose career spanned decades, was celebrated for dressing some of the most iconic women in history, including Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy, Princess Diana, Julia Roberts, and Gwyneth Paltrow. His creations became synonymous with sophistication, glamour, and timeless Italian craftsmanship.

Paying tribute on Instagram, Anne Hathaway reflected on her personal connection with the designer, describing him as a “titan of a designer” and recalling the joy he brought into her life, from dancing to karaoke. She wrote of his lasting legacy, celebrating the beauty and grandeur he brought to the world of fashion.

Valentino’s coffin had been displayed publicly at his foundation in Rome earlier in the week, allowing fans and admirers to pay their respects. Among those attending the funeral were also his longtime partner Giancarlo Giammetti and many of his former employees, all of whom joined in remembering a man whose vision shaped modern haute couture.

Francesco Sangiovanni, a visitor who came to honor the designer, captured the sentiment of many admirers, saying, “He conquered the world with his refinement… he brought Italy to the world. The greatest people wore Valentino.”

Valentino Garavani’s influence on fashion remains unmatched, leaving behind a legacy of elegance, innovation, and beauty that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Source and Credit: AFP