Valentino Garavani founded the eponymous Maison in 1957.
Thanks to the support of Giancarlo Giammetti the Maison grew in prestige, appreciation and business.

Valentino and Giammetti, Yin and Yang of the Maison, established strong personal relationships and friendships with the most elegant women in the world.

Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Marella Agnelli among others became natural ambassadresses of the elegant, chic, stylish brand.

In 1967 Valentino won the prestigious Neiman Marcus Award, in 1971 was portrayed by Andy Warhol and in 2006 received the Legion d'Honneur. The infamous "red" Valentino is the trademark of the brand, now owned by Qatari Mayhoola, and directed by Pierpaolo Piccioli.
Despite having sold the brand in 1998, the duo Valentino-Giammetti still seat front row at the shows celebrating the evolution of the Maison style.

It is a unique case where the retired founders of a Maison still support the new era, with love and passion, trust and loyalty.  Such an endorsement is the smartest result that the Valentino brand could have ever achieved. This virtual bridge between the past glory and the present success is a true Italian Masterpiece. And the Valentino brand is very much nurtured by this deep love.

by Susanna Nicoletti - a fashion and luxury marketing, communication and digital senior professional in the industry with boutique consultancy www.thefashiondispatch.com