There is a lot of confusion when it comes to the two Italian brands. Around the authenticity and whether or not Valentino bags are still a luxury brand.Â
There has also been a lot of animosity between the two brands in recent years, so here we’re digging into what is the difference is between Valentino and Valentino bags, covering everything you need to know…Â

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When were Valentino and Valentino Bags founded?
Starting with Valentino Bags, which was in fact founded before Valentino, the brand was established in the early 1950s by Father Vincenzo in Naples. The name was changed to Mario Valentino when his son later took over the business, so when we refer to Mario Valentino that is in fact Valentino bags. Initially, a leather shoe brand, the designer continued to create leather goods until Karl Lagerfeld and Georgia Armani came on board as designers in the 70s and 80s. The brand soared in popularity aided by sophisticated advertorials shot by photographers such as Helmut Newton and Robert Mapplethorpe.Â
Eight years later in 1960 Rome, Valentino Garavani founded the fashion house, Valentino. This fashion house was a prestige brand and became known for its red dresses. The bright shade that later became known in the fashion industry as ‘Valentino Red’.Â
Looking closely at the difference in styles, Valentino Garavani is the more well-known international famous house. Known for dressing women such as Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Lauren in beautiful, high-end luxury fashion that competes with powerhouses such as Chanel and Dior.Â