Roberto Cavalli, the larger than life fashion designer known for his decadent style and love of animal prints, passed away on Friday night at the age of 83. His unique approach to fashion was inspired by nature, with Cavalli famously stating, “God is really the best designer, so I started to copy God.” His bold and glamorous fashion shows in Milan were a sight to behold, with super-tanned models strutting down the runway in slashed fabrics, sky-high heels, and glossy hair.
During his heyday in the late Nineties and Noughties, Cavalli was the go-to designer for high-octane, flashy red carpet moments. Celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Jennifer Lopez were fans of his extravagant designs, which exuded a sense of opulence and luxury. Beckham even walked in one of his creations at a charity fashion show in Monte Carlo, while Lopez rocked his boho-fabulous looks with flair.
Cavalli spared no expense when it came to his lavish lifestyle, inviting glamorous celebrities and magazine editors to his French-Riviera-moored superyacht, decked out in leopard print furnishings and his own brand of vodka. His Sloane Street store revamp was a star-studded affair, with leopard print covering the walls and tables piled high with Italian antipasti. Cavalli’s larger-than-life persona extended beyond his fashion designs, making him a true icon in the industry.
Despite his success, Cavalli’s personal life was just as colorful as his designs. With three marriages and six children, he lived a life filled with drama and excitement. His aesthetic and outlook on women may have been of a pre-Me Too era, but his impact on the fashion world cannot be denied. Since selling his label in 2014, the brand has struggled to capture the spirit and essence that Cavalli once embodied.
In conclusion, Roberto Cavalli was a true visionary in the world of fashion, known for his extravagant designs and larger-than-life personality. His love of animal prints and opulent fabrics set him apart from other designers, making him a true icon in the industry. While his legacy lives on, his unique style and approach to fashion will always be remembered as a testament to his creativity and passion for design.