Valentino Retires From The Fashion Industry
The Italian designer retires
Just weeks after celebrating his 45th anniversary in the fashion industry, legendary designer Valentino Garavani announced his retirement.
The famous couturier has dressed some of the most glamorous women in the world, including A-listers Audrey Hepburn, Julia Roberts and even Sophia, the queen of Spain. His resignation was a big surprise to everyone, especially since the designer said he wouldn't leave his fashion house 'till January 2008. What caused his change of mind? He claims the luxurious anniversary party in Rome, thrown in July couldn't have been a better way to say goodbye. He thinks a gala of that kind will be hard to top. "It was a moment that will be impossible to repeat. And so, at this time, I have decided that is the perfect moment to say adieu to the world of fashion," the 75-year-old designer explains. However, he did add that his last ready-to-wear collection and haute couture line will be hitting the runway later this year and the beginning of 2008.
Valentino's desire to become a designer goes all the way back into childhood years. "Even as a young boy, my passion was to design, and I have been very lucky to be able to do what I have loved all my life. There can be few greater gifts than that," he said.
Surely, after decades of devotion to fashion, and hundreds of exquisite evening gowns and breathtaking couture, Valentino's name will not be forgotten anytime soon.
