January 23, (THEWILL) — Legendary Italian fashion designer, Valentino Garavani, was honoured on Friday morning in Rome, during a funeral ceremony at the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri.
The service followed two days of public viewing at his foundation’s headquarters, where thousands paid tribute with flowers and messages.
Valentino died on Monday, at the age of 93, at his home in Rome.
Many of fashion’s most well-known figures were in attendance. Anne Hathaway arrived visibly emotional with her husband, Adam Shulman. Also present were Anna Wintour, the longtime editor of Vogue, Donatella Versace, Tom Ford, Alessandro Michele, Pierpaolo Piccioli, Brunello Cucinelli, Maria Grazia Chiuri and other top designers.
Floral tributes lined the entrance, including a handwritten note that read, “We lose the most beautiful flower.”
Many mourners wore Valentino’s iconic red, as fans gathered outside the church holding red scarves, hats, and accessories in tribute to the designer’s legacy.
Valentino’s longtime partner and co-founder of his fashion house, Giancarlo Giammetti, spoke during the service, recalling decades of friendship and collaboration.
After the service, Valentino will be cremated, and his ashes will be interred at the Flaminio Cemetery in northern Rome, where Giammetti has said he intends to be buried beside him.
Valentino’s influence reached far beyond fashion. He dressed royalty and Hollywood stars, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor, Julia Roberts, and Anne Hathaway, leaving a lasting legacy of elegance that continues to inspire.
Evi Ben Ezaga writes on entertainment, culture, and trending stories.
