Italian fashion icon Roberto Cavalli, renowned for his captivating animal-print creations adored by luminaries of the entertainment industry, has passed away at the age of 83, as announced by his company.
Cavalli, the visionary founder of his eponymous label in the early 1970s, had been battling illness for some time. He leaves behind a legacy survived by his six children and his partner, Sandra Bergman Nilsson.
In an Instagram post, Sergio Azzolari, the chief executive of Roberto Cavalli, extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the company, affirming that Cavalli’s enduring legacy continues to serve as a wellspring of inspiration.
The designer passed away on April 12 at his residence in Florence, as reported by the Italian news agency ANSA.
Cavalli, recognized for his bold use of vibrant colors and patchwork designs in his frequently daring creations, epitomized an outgoing persona as an avid art enthusiast who sported tinted glasses and indulged in cigars.
Beyond fashion, Cavalli ventured into real estate and was often found socializing in his renowned “Just Cavalli Cafe,” a hotspot nestled in central Milan.
Reflecting on Cavalli’s impact, Giorgio Armani expressed “enormous respect” for the late designer, despite their contrasting visions of fashion.