Garavani Valentino, the World-renowned Italian designer , helmed the Valentino from its inception up until 2007. Born in Voghera in 1932, even as a boy he was attracted to the world of fashion. On holiday in Barcelona, he discovered his love of the color red, that became a distinctive sign of his style, famous as ‘Valentino red’. In 1949 at the age of 17, Valentino moved to Paris, the fashion capital of the world. Having completed his studies at the Ecole des Beaux Arts and also at the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, Valentino acquired work under Jean Desses first, followed a few years later by Guy Laroche. By 1959 Valentino was confident enough to set out on his own, and thus began a career that would be marked by honor after honor.

Valentino's Great Designer--Garavani Valentino

Valentino’s career in Italy showed remarkable success at a rapid pace. Having started in 1960 with Giancarlo Giammetti as his business manager, the newly-minted House of Valentino was recognized internationally at the 1962 fashion exposition in Florence. And only three years after the young designer’s first international accolade, Valentino became the top name in Italian Haute Couture design.

Valentino’s career in Italy showed remarkable success at a rapid pace. Having started in 1960 with Giancarlo Giammetti as his business manager, the newly-minted "House of Valentino" was recognized internationally at the 1962 fashion exposition in Florence. And only three years after the young designer’s first international accolade, Valentino became the top name in Italian Haute Couture design.

The recognition for the young Couture designer’s work had only begun. By 1967, perhaps the highest international fashion accolade – the Neiman Marcus Prize – was awarded to the Garavani Valentino in Dallas, TX.

Uniquely gifted in the field of luxury wear and intricately-designed gowns, his work has catered to the wealthy and high-brow of Europe and America. Wearing his sought-after gowns have been women many top celebrities and high profile women, from Jackie Onassis and Elizabeth Taylor to Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Garner.

In 2006, the French president Chirac, awarded valentine the Legion d'Honneur, perhaps Valentino’s highest achievement.

In 2007, when he announced his retirement. Alessandra Facchinetti took over as head designer until being unceremoniously fired after her spring 2009 collection walked. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli were named as the new creative directors. The duo had previously designed accessories for the label.

Now, the Valentino Group today plays a major role in fashion and luxury with goods ranging from clothes, footwear, accessories and Valentino handbags for both men and women.