Valentino told Italian daily La Stampa he wanted Bruni, who is dating French President Nicolas Sarkozy, to join the ranks of other supermodels at his haute couture display on Wednesday in Paris, but she declined.

"I tried to get her, but no luck, she's too busy at this time," Valentino told La Stamps.

Media reports have claimed that Sarkozy and Bruni might already have married in secret, while others claim a wedding is imminent. Both have remained coy about their plans, with Sarkozy telling reporters earlier this month they might only find out about the nuptials after they had happened.

Valentino said he thinks Bruni has the right stuff to become France's first lady.

"She's a beautiful woman, right for the Elysee" presidential palace, Valentino told La Stampa. "She has all the qualities of a first lady."

Valentino, whose signature flaming red couture gowns have graced royalty, Hollywood stars and the international jet set for 45 years, announced his retirement in September.

Alessandra Facchinetti, the former designer of Gucci women's ready-to-wear, has been appointed to replace him.