(handbag.com) - Italian fashion designer has Valentino announced has, today announced his retirement from the fashion world.
Valentino has been in the fashion business for 45 years and recently celebrated the occasion in July. "At this time, I have decided that it is the perfect moment to say adieu to the world of fashion," 74-year-old Valentino said. "As the English say, I would like to leave the party when it is still full."
Valentino has promised two collections before he leaves. The first collection will be shown in October during Paris fashion week and the final collection will be shown in January.
"I have been very lucky to do what I have loved all my life. There can be few greater gifts than that," the designer said.
His label will continue under different leadership and at the top of the list for possible replacements is former Gucci designer Alessandra Facchinetti. Valentino will leave the label in January 2008.