Actress Anne Hathaway paid a moving tribute to the late Valentino Garavani, the legendary fashion designer who passed away on January 19 at 93 years old. Through an Instagram post featuring photos of the two, Hathaway reflected on their two-decade-long bond, expressing deep gratitude for the impact he had on her life. The tribute highlighted the warmth and affection behind Hathaway’s respect for Valentino, emphasizing their close personal connection beyond his role as a fashion icon.
Remembering Valentino’s Impact on Hathaway’s Life
Hathaway described Valentino as a
“beloved, world-renown, Titan of a designer”
who became much more than that to her. Their relationship began after meeting on the set of The Devil Wears Prada in the mid-2000s, with Valentino dressing Hathaway for numerous occasions over the years. She recalled the designer’s kindness, from sending birthday flowers annually to sharing joyful moments of singing and dancing. His influence, she said, made her world “brighter, grander and more delightful.”
“It has been my extraordinary honor to have known, loved and been cared for by the great Valentino Garavani,”
Anne Hathaway
“He is a beloved, world-renown, Titan of a designer, but he was also my dear and cherished friend who educated me, raised me, sent me flowers every year on my birthday, made me laugh, was my dancing and karaoke partner on so many joyful nights, and who made my world so much brighter, grander and more delightful than I could have ever understood it to be,”
Anne Hathaway
Valentino’s Wedding Dress Gift Stands as a Lasting Memory
One of the most intimate gestures in their relationship was Valentino’s creation of a custom couture wedding dress for Hathaway. She described the designer’s gift as profoundly moving, saying the generosity behind it “still brings tears” to her eyes. Hathaway wore the elegant off-the-shoulder gown with a lace veil when she married actor Adam Shulman in 2012, showcasing Valentino’s craftsmanship on one of her most important days.
“so generous it still brings tears to my eyes.”
Anne Hathaway
Offering Condolences to Valentino’s Family
In closing her tribute, Hathaway expressed sympathy and love for Valentino’s family during this difficult time. She honored his legacy as one that will remain forever enveloped by beauty, fitting for the designer known as the “one true Emperor” of fashion. Her heartfelt words conveyed both sorrow and reverence, underscoring how deeply Valentino is missed by those who knew him well.
“forever surrounded by eternal beauty, a most fitting next chapter for the one true Emperor who gifted us all a legacy of unparalleled magnificence.”
Anne Hathaway
“I write this with deepest love and utmost sympathy for his entire family who I hold in my heart at this tender time x,”
Anne Hathaway
Key Moments of Collaboration Between Hathaway and Valentino
Valentino’s influence on Hathaway’s public image is marked by several remarkable fashion moments. In 2006, she wore a delicate cream lace dress by Valentino to The Black Ball, a celebrated event hosted by Alicia Keys and Iman under the Conde Nast Media Group. She completed her look with a shimmering clutch for the occasion. Years later, Hathaway supported Valentino’s legacy by attending both the New York City and Los Angeles premieres of Valentino: The Last Emperor in 2009, a documentary chronicling the designer’s illustrious career. Most recently, Hathaway donned a striking red Valentino dress at the 2025 WWD Honors in New York City, illustrating the continued significance of their partnership.
