Italian iconic fashion designer Valentino passes away at 93

ROME -- Renowned Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani, founder of the Valentino brand, passed away at the age of 93 in Rome on Monday, the Foundation of Valentino Garavani and Giancarlo Giammetti announced.

Valentino died at his residence in Rome, surrounded by his loved ones, the foundation said.

According to the announcement, the lying in state will be held from Wednesday to Thursday between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at Rome's Piazza Mignanelli. The funeral will take place on Friday at a well-known church in central Rome.

Valentino Garavani was a distinguished Italian fashion designer known for his signature use of red, later referred to as "Valentino Red." He started his fashion career in 1959 and had a profound influence on the fashion industry in Italy and worldwide.