Italian Fashion Icon Roberto Cavalli Passes Away at 83
The fashion world is mourning the loss of Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli, the creative genius renowned for his signature animal-print designs and vibrant use of color. Cavalli’s passing was confirmed by his namesake company, leaving behind a legacy that has significantly shaped the industry.
Cavalli, who began his illustrious career in the early 1970s, had been battling illness before he died on Friday at his residence in Florence, as reported by ANSA, the Italian news agency. His life was not just one of design, but also of family and partnership, as he is survived by his six children and his partner Sandra Bergman Nilsson.
“The Roberto Cavalli company shares condolences with Mr. Cavalli’s family, his legacy remains a constant source of inspiration,” stated Sergio Azzolari, the chief executive of Roberto Cavalli, in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Known for his flamboyant personality and love for the arts, Cavalli was often seen in his tinted glasses and with a cigar in hand. His work was characterized by bold colors and patchwork effects that often resulted in revealing and sensuous attire. Beyond fashion, he ventured into real estate and hospitality, owning the “Just Cavalli Cafe,” a popular nightclub in Milan.
Fellow designer Giorgio Armani expressed his admiration for Cavalli’s unique approach to fashion. “Roberto was a true artist, wild and wonderful in his use of prints, capable of transforming fantasy into seductive clothes,” Armani shared on social media platform X.
A testament to his enduring influence was a memorable image of US model Cindy Crawford wearing a Cavalli creation—a long slip dress with a tiger face—on Rome’s Spanish steps in July 2000.
Roberto Cavalli’s creative director Fausto Puglisi paid tribute to the late designer: “You will be missed and you are loved by so many that your name will continue on, a beacon of inspiration for others, and especially for me.”
The Florence-based fashion group is currently under the ownership of Auriel Investment SA, part of Dubai’s Hussain Sajwani’s portfolio, who took over in 2019. The Italian media has reported that Cavalli’s funeral will be held in Florence on Monday, as the fashion community prepares to bid farewell to one of its most iconic figures.
