Gwyneth Paltrow, Cindy Crawford and Donatella Versace lead tributes to designer Valentino | World News

Tributes have flooded in for designer Valentino, who has been hailed as an “eternal symbol of Italian high fashion”.

He died on Monday at his home in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones, his foundation announced today. He was 93.

A lying in state will be held on Wednesday and Thursday to honour him.

His funeral is set to take place in Rome on Friday.

Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow, who wore a Valentino gown for her wedding to Brad Falchuk, said on Instagram: “I was so lucky to know and love Valentino – to know the real man, in private.

“The man who was in love with beauty, his family, his muses, his friends. His dogs, his gardens, and a good Hollywood story.

“I loved him so much. I loved how he always pestered me to “at least wear a little mascara” when I came to dinner. I loved his naughty laugh.

“This feels like the end of an era. He will be deeply missed by me and all who loved him. Rest in peace, Vava.”

Fashion designer Donatella Versace also said in a post: “Today, we lost a true maestro who will forever be remembered for his art.

“My thoughts go to Giancarlo, who never left his side for all these years.

“He will never be forgotten.”

Born Valentino Garavani, he became known simply as Valentino – sharing the name with his eponymous fashion line.

The label is best known for creating “Valentino red” – a dark shade of red that would feature heavily in their dresses.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was among a list of leading politicians to pay tribute to the designer on social media.

She said: “Valentino, undisputed master of style and elegance and eternal symbol of Italian high fashion.

“Today, Italy loses a legend, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. Thank you for everything.”

Deputy prime minister Antonio Tajani described him as a “leading figure” of global fashion in a post on X.

His foundation added: “Valentino Garavani was not only a constant guide and inspiration for all of us, but a true source of light, creativity and vision.”

Model Cindy Crawford said in a post on Instagram that she was “heartbroken” by his loss.

She said: “I will always be grateful for the years I had the privilege of working closely with him.”

Valentino dresses became a mainstay on Hollywood red carpets – from Reese Witherspoon, Jennifer Lopez and Cate Blanchett among the stars to have worn him.

Other famous names include Julia Roberts, Princess Diana and former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy – who wore his dresses throughout her mourning period for John F. Kennedy.

He later developed a friendship with Anne Hathaway – even making an appearance in 2006 film The Devil Wears Prada.

Despite retiring almost two decades ago, his fashion line continues to be a staple at award shows.

At this month’s Golden Globe awards actors Hannah Einbinder and Colman Domingo wore outfits bearing his name.

Born in Voghera, northern Italy, the designer first made his name after setting up a fashion house in Paris.

He later returned to his home country to set up the fashion house alongside long-time business partner Giancarlo Giammetti.

His works were best known for their opulence, often incorporating vivid colours and ornate designs at a time when much of the fashion world was looking towards minimalist design.

He once famously said: “I know what women want. They want to be beautiful.”

His career stretched from the 1960s through to his retirement in 2008.