The stylist Roberto Cavalli, founder of the fashion house of the same name, has died at the age of 83 in his native Florence. Having been ill for some time, he leaves behind his partner Sara and his six children, the last of whom was born just a year ago. Great artistic but also entrepreneurial talent, Cavalli released the first collection under his own name in 1970, at the Salon du Pret-a’-Porter in Paris.
He brings his collections to the catwalks of the Sala Bianca of Palazzo Pitti, and then to those of Milano Collezioni. In 1972 he opened his first boutique in Saint-Tropez. He quickly became famous throughout the world, especially for his animalier looks: it is no coincidence that the New York Times crowned him the king of “animal” clothes.
His denim collections are also famous, as are his sumptuous red carpet dresses. And again the pharaonic parties in his villa in Florence, the jet set, the great international events. In addition to new brands, such as Just Cavalli, launched at the end of the 90s: men’s and women’s clothing, but also accessories, sunglasses, watches, perfumes, underwear and swimsuits.
In 2015 the designer sold his historic maison, sold to an investment fund, and shortly afterwards also left the role of creative director of the brand.
“Roberto Cavalli, Florentine and master of fashion known for his indomitable spirit, leaves us. His legacy of audacity and beauty will always remain in our hearts and on catwalks around the world. Rest in peace!”. So on X the governor of Tuscany Eugienio Giani.