“I know what women want. They want to be beautiful.”-Valentino Garavani

Italian designer, Valentino Garavani, embodies the grandeur of ancient Rome in his collections. He has a unique take on ancient elegance and has managed to produce top selling designs since the 1970’s. He got his start studying design in the 1940’s at Accademia dell’Arte in Milan and at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture in Paris. After graduating he worked as an assistant for Jean Desses and Guy Laroche. He began attracting clients while at Laroche that favored his craftsmanship and use of vibrant colors in his designs.

Valentino opened his first shop in Rome in 1960. His early collections featured signature trouser suits that moved flawlessly from day to night. His breakout White Collection in 1968 caught the eye of Jacqueline Kennedy. She wore a white lace trimmed two piece Valentino ensemble to her wedding with Aristotle Onassis. Valentino later became known more for his use of vibrant red rather than white. His vintage designs are always elaborately embellished and distinctly Italian. He continued to design his self named collection, menswear, childrens wear, and home collection until 2008 when he retired.