Valentino Garavani, recognized as one of Italy’s most famous fashion designers today, made his international debut in Florence in 1962, hailed as a triumphant success, with the young couturier submerged by orders from foreign buyers and enthusiastic comments by the press. His reputation was secured by the enormously successful White Collection in 1967 that introduced the magical “V” logo. By designing the white dress Jacqueline Kennedy wore to her wedding with Aristotle Onassis Valentino would forever be established in the minds of the most sophisticated and elegant women in the world. Starting with a boutique in Milan, Valentino continuously expanded around the world and opened a chain of boutiques in the US and Japan. Although he sold his empire in 1988, Valentino is still designing all his collections while creating his own perfume and make-up line. In July 2006 he was awarded the prestigious Legion d’Honneur by President Chirac of France.
The interview with Ricardo Karam took place in Rome, Italy.