The British Fashion Council (BFC) has unveiled the name of the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Achievement title at the forthcoming Fashion Awards, and it’s none other than one of the last remaining of that generation of designers, who shook up fashion in 19060s and 70s.
Step forward Valentino Garavani, the founder and former creative director of what’s still one of the biggest names in fashion, Maison Valentino.
In a career spanning many decades. He worked with some of the greats of Paris couture before setting up his own house in Rome in 1960. Through that he became a favourite of the rich and famous and the go-to label for clients who wanted clothes that looked just right for red carpets, intimate dinners, lunches and parties.
He co-founded Maison Valentino with Giancarlo Giammetti and launched his debut collection in 1962. Known for his signature colour of an intense crimson red, as well as the distinctive V emblem, he continued working until 2008.
But even after his retirement, his legacy continued in the ongoing success of Valentino both in the couture and ready-to-wear arenas.
Valentino said of the announcement: “It is a tremendous honour to receive the Outstanding Achievement Award. Throughout the years, I have been fortunate to witness the transformative power of fashion and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had. To be honoured in London, one of my most beloved cities, makes this momentous occasion even more special. I am truly humbled, and I hope to continue to inspire future generations of designers to challenge conventional norms and wholeheartedly embrace innovation, beauty, and glamour.”
BFC chief Carline Rush added that he’s had a “game-changing approach and pursuit to push boundaries throughout his long-spanning career. Mr Valentino is a true visionary whose boundless creativity, innovative designs, and dedication to craftsmanship, have revolutionised the fashion industry. [His] contributions and achievements are unparalleled, and he has not only set new standards of excellence but also inspired generations of designers.”
Previous winners of this particular award include Patagonia’s Yvon Chouinard, Giorgio Armani, Miuccia Prada, Ralph Lauren, Karl Lagerfeld, Anna Wintour, Terry and Tricia Jones and Manolo Blahnik, among others.
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