ROME, Jan. 20 -- Legendary Italian designer Valentino Garavani, creator of the iconic "Valentino red," has died at 93. He built one of Italy's most celebrated luxury fashion houses and was known as the "emperor" of couture. His foundation announced his death on Monday at his Rome home; the cause is not yet known.

Valentino introduced his signature red in 1959 with a strapless tulle cocktail dress, inspired by an elegant woman at Barcelona's opera. He included at least one red dress in every collection and once said women in red embody the perfect heroine. His designs combined romance with intricate craftsmanship, earning global acclaim.

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