Valentino takes final bow

Valentino on Wednesday bode farewell to his fans in Paris, after an historic career of 45 years in the fashion industry. The couturier, who's clientele over five decades included Jackie Onassis and Princess Diana, has dressed every major celebrity and aristocracy in modern fashion. The 75 year-old designer last year celebrated his 45th anniversary with a lavish three day event in Rome and stated his Paris Couture show would be the last before his retirement.

The collection, a seamless presentation of exquisite gowns - all in red - came in 75 looks, signaling the designer's age and the end of his glittering career. Attended by Hollywood elites Gwyneth Paltrow and Uma Thurman, the designer was adamant to keep a happy disposition. "I don't want to be ridiculous and I don't want to be emotional," he stated. "I have had a fantastic career and I don't regret one moment of it."

The Valentino brand is part of the Valentino Fashion Group, which was bought by the British private equity firm Permiro for £2bn.

Valentino will star in his own documentary, directed by Vanity Fair's Matt Tyrnauer, set to be released later this year. A retrospective of his work will be showcased in Paris in June.