Polski
Roberto Cavalli, the legendary Italian fashion designer, died at his home in Florence at the age of 83 after a long battle with illness. The sad news was reported by his family and the Italian news agency ANSA, which reported on the designer’s recently deteriorating health.
Roberto Cavalli’s company issued a statement on Instagram expressing deep condolences to the Cavalli family. “His indelible legacy will continue to inspire future generations.” – stated Sergio Azzolari, CEO of the brand. Cavalli left behind not only a rich portfolio of creative designs, but also a lasting influence on global fashion trends.
His passing was deeply felt in the fashion industry, where he was revered not only for his extraordinary designs, but also for his personal charisma and the impact he had on fashion. Fausto Puglisi, creative director of the Roberto Cavalli brand, which he took over in October 2020, expressed his sadness and appreciation in a moving farewell:
“Dear Roberto, you may be physically no longer with us, but I know that your spirit will always be with me. It is the greatest honor of my career to work with your legacy and create for the brand you founded with such vision and style. Rest in peace, we will miss you, and your name is loved by so many that it will continue to be a beacon of inspiration for others, especially me.”
Roberto Cavalli came from a family with a rich artistic tradition. His grandfather, Giuseppe Rossi, was a prominent representative of the Macchiaioli movement, and his works adorn the walls of the prestigious Uffizi Gallery in Florence. After graduating from the Art Institute of Florence, Cavalli made a name for himself as a pioneer in the field of leather printing, which paved the way for his rise to global fame in the fashion industry. His legacy remains an enduring mark on the canvass of global fashion, serving as a source of inspiration for current and future generations of designers.
Launching his brand in 1970, Roberto Cavalli debuted his first collection at Paris’ Salon du Prêt-à-Porter, held at the Porte de Versailles. He presented jackets, jeans and mini dresses made of patchwork denim. He sold his exclusive hippie outfits in a boutique in St. Tropez on the French Riviera, which attracted the attention of such movie stars as Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren.
Cavalli was the father of six children. From his first marriage he had Tommaso and Christiana, and from his second marriage he had Robert, Sara and Daniele. A year ago, the designer’s life was enriched by a sixth child born from his relationship with model Sandra Nilsson. This family joy gave him strength, despite his deteriorating health in the last years of his life.
Roberto Cavalli was born on November 15, 1940 in Florence. He is known for his unique style, which often includes extravagant designs, especially those inspired by animals, and the use of innovative techniques such as printing on leather. Founder and creator of the clothing brand bearing his name, Cavalli has gained international fame for his designs, which are often synonymous with luxury, sex appeal and freedom.
He began his education at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where he initially focused on painting on fabrics, which later evolved into an innovative approach to fashion design. Cavalli revolutionized the technology of printing on leather, which allowed him to create more complex and colorful designs on the material, something that was previously difficult to achieve.
His first collection was presented in the early 1970s. It was launched in Paris in the 1970s, where it immediately attracted attention due to its originality and innovation. Since then, Roberto Cavalli has become a fixture at international fashion weeks, presenting his collections in Milan and New York.
Cavalli was also known for expanding his brand into other areas, including accessories, perfumes and clothing lines for children and young adults. In addition, the designer has become involved in the restaurant industry, opening exclusive establishments in some of the world’s largest cities.
Known for his glamorous life, Cavalli often surrounded himself with celebrities and was a regular on red carpets. His designs are a favorite choice for many Hollywood stars. Roberto Cavalli is not only synonymous with luxury fashion, but also a lifestyle icon, combining his passion for art with commercial success.
Roberto Cavalli has dressed many celebrities for the red carpet. For example, Zendaya appeared in his creation at the Green Carpet Fashion Awards in 2024, showcasing Cavalli’s classic style. Taylor Swift chose a Cavalli gown for the 2023 Grammy ceremony, and Abbey Clancy wore his design at the 2024 BRIT Awards. Miley Cyrus wore a vintage Cavalli creation in her music video for “Doctor (Work It Out),” while Janelle Monáe donned his design at the 2022 BET Awards.
These selections underscore how much influence Cavalli has had on fashion, offering creations that have won praise from film and music stars alike.
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