Roberto Cavalli, the iconic Italian fashion designer renowned for his lavish and extravagant style, has passed away at the age of 83 in his Florence home, following a prolonged illness, as reported by the Italian news agency ANSA.
Cavalli, whose career took off in the 1970s, became famous for his distinctive use of animal prints and vibrant colors. His designs were beloved by celebrities such as Brigitte Bardot, Sophia Loren, Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and Taylor Swift. In 2010, he made headlines when Jennifer Lopez stunned in one of his leopard-print dresses at the World Music Awards.
The fashion house he founded, known for its luxurious clothing, handbags, shoes, and perfumes, expressed deep sorrow on Instagram, honoring Cavalli’s lasting influence and creative legacy. “It is with great sadness that today we say our final goodbyes to our founder Roberto Cavalli,” the company posted.
Fausto Puglisi, who has served as the brand’s creative director since October 2020, shared his grief and admiration for Cavalli, emphasizing his lasting impact on the fashion world. “Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore, but I know I will feel your spirit with me always,” Puglisi wrote in a heartfelt social media tribute. “Your name will continue on as a beacon of inspiration for others, especially for me.”
Tributes from around the globe have poured in. Brazilian model Adriana Lima called Cavalli a “legend,” while former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham described him as an “icon,” sharing a touching photo on her Instagram stories. Florence’s mayor, Dario Nardella, also paid his respects, recognizing Cavalli’s significant contributions to Italian fashion and his deep connection to the city.
Cavalli’s creative genius—marked by his bold use of vibrant colors, patchwork techniques, and signature animal prints—along with his ever-present tinted glasses and cigar, made his designs unforgettable. From his early innovations with leather and denim to his global acclaim in high-end fashion, Cavalli’s influence remains unparalleled. His funeral was held in Florence, where the world bid farewell to a true fashion pioneer.
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