The eponymous fashion house shared its sadness over the designer's death on Instagram. “It is with great sadness that we bid our founder a final farewell today,” it said. Cavalli's legacy lives on through his creativity, love of nature and family.
Cavalli, who became world-famous primarily for his animal-hair-looking creations, was considered a favorite of the international jet set for decades.
It was initially worn by actresses like Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot in the 70s, but years later stars of the next generation, like TV star Kim Kardashian and singer Jennifer Lopez, loved Cavallis skin-tight and sensational designs. The fashion designer himself liked Ferraris, big cigars and shirts with wide unbuttoned buttons that revealed his tanned chest.
Fashion designer Cavalli died at the age of 83
The Italian repeatedly emphasized that he was interested in exotic animals – he was inspired by them in many of his creations. Many celebrities later wore his clothes. The now deceased fashion designer was born in Florence in 1940. Art and creativity played a big role in his family. His grandfather, Giuseppe Rossi, was a member of the Macchiaioli group of painters whose pictures adorn the Uffizi Gallery. At the age of 17, Cavalli entered the Art Institute of his hometown.
At the age of 30, he presented his first ready-to-wear collection. The Italian opened his first boutique in 1972 in Saint-Tropez, southern France. One of his first clients was the actress Bardot. After that, he also managed to attract the attention of an international jet. He later expanded his range by launching a denim label, men's lines and children's collections, shoes, accessories and swimwear.
News agency Ansa reported that Cavalli had been seriously ill for some time. His health has deteriorated in recent days. Therefore, he died surrounded by his closest family members. He is survived by a total of six children. The Italian was married several times. For the last 15 years, he has been with his partner Sandra Bergman Nilsson. Almost a year ago, the two had a son.