valiant valentino

Synonymous with opulence, Valentino’s talent lies in intricate designs and body-conscious silhouettes

Look out for sumptuous layered silk and lace styles embellished with everything from feathers and rosettes to delicate ruffles and bows. That’s the DNA of one of fashion’s greats, a name that is synonymous with luxury: Valentino. Though it started with couture, the brand is now into perfume, handbags, sunglasses and suits. Valentino is the only label to have designed wedding dresses for the likes of Jackie Onassis and Jennifer Lopez. Synonymous with opulence, extravagance, and drama, Valentino Garavani made his mark early with intricately detailed, luxurious gowns and tasteful body-conscious silhouettes-even perfecting his own shade of Valentino Red. The brand is de rigueur among European royalty, American socialites, and celebrities craving a touch of class. His vintage dresses continue commanding attention (remember the black gown with white piping Julia Roberts wore to accept her Oscar in 2001). Valentino retired in 2008 to the horror of loyal fans across the globe.

1959		Valentino sets up his first studio in Rome
1964		Jacqueline Kennedy becomes a client
1968		Designs the wedding dress worn by Jackie O for her marriage to Onassis
1970		Launch of his first ready-to-wear collection. Opens boutiques in Rome and New York
1978		Launch of Valentino perfume at a gala evening in Paris
1989		First show of the haute couture collection in Paris
1991		Creation of the perfume Vendetta for men and women
1994		Presents costume designs for an opera on the life of movie star Rudolf Valentino
1998		Sells the company for 800 million Euros to HdP, an Italian conglomerate
2002		Valentino S.p.A., with revenues of over $180 million, sold to Marzotto Apparel
2004		Launch of V perfume
2008		Valentino stages his last Haute-Couture show, and retires from world stage