Italian Fashion Icon Roberto Cavalli Passes Away at 83, Leaving Behind a Legacy of Glamorous Designs and Celebrity Adoration

Renowned Italian fashion pioneer, Roberto Cavalli, has passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of iconic animal-print designs adored by celebrities. Cavalli, who established his eponymous label in the early 1970s, had been battling illness for some time before his demise. He is survived by his six children and his partner, Sandra Bergman Nilsson.

The Roberto Cavalli company expressed their condolences to Mr. Cavalli's family, acknowledging his enduring legacy as a constant source of inspiration. Sergio Azzolari, the chief executive of Roberto Cavalli, shared this sentiment on Instagram following the news of Cavalli's passing at his home in Florence.

Known for his vibrant color palette and bold patchwork patterns in his distinctively revealing creations, Cavalli was a flamboyant figure in the fashion world. He was an avid art enthusiast who sported tinted glasses and enjoyed smoking cigars. In addition to his contributions to fashion, Cavalli delved into real estate ventures and frequented his popular "Just Cavalli Cafe," a prominent nightclub in central Milan.

Despite their differing approaches to fashion, renowned designer Giorgio Armani expressed great admiration for Cavalli's unique artistic vision. Armani praised Cavalli as a true artist who had the ability to translate fantasy into alluring garments. One of Cavalli's most iconic designs featured supermodel Cindy Crawford descending Rome's Spanish Steps in a long slip dress adorned with a tiger motif.

This imagery encapsulated Cavalli's ability to infuse fantasy and allure into his creations. Fausto Puglisi, the creative director of Roberto Cavalli, paid tribute to Cavalli's enduring legacy, highlighting his impact as a beacon of inspiration for the fashion industry. The Florence-based fashion group, now under the ownership of Auriel Investment SA, led by Dubai's Hussain Sajwani, will continue Cavalli's rich heritage following his passing in 2019.

The fashion world mourns the loss of Roberto Cavalli, with his funeral set to take place in Florence. Cavalli's influence and innovative spirit will be remembered by many, ensuring that his name remains a lasting symbol of creativity and inspiration within the industry.