Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli has passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of flamboyant and glamorous style. Known for his animal prints and over-the-top designs, Cavalli became renowned in the early 1970s. His work was often seen at fashion shows and star-studded events like the Met Gala, with a focus on color, glamor, and tight fits. Cavalli’s designs found fans in celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Beyoncé, Madonna, Cher, the Spice Girls, and Zendaya.
In addition to his work with celebrities, Cavalli also made an impact on the fashion industry as a whole. In the 1990s, he revolutionized the jeans industry by adding Lycra to denim, making stretch jeans popular among the masses. He believed that fashion was an integral part of life, as it allows individuals to express themselves and reflect their mood and personality. His desire to leave a lasting mark on the fashion industry drove his passion for design and creativity.
Fausto Puglisi, creative director at Roberto Cavalli since October 2020, paid tribute to Cavalli on social media, expressing his belief that Cavalli’s spirit will always be present. Puglisi emphasized that Cavalli’s name will continue to inspire others, including himself. Cavalli was known for merging nature with fashion, once stating, “I copy the dress of an animal because I love to copy God. I think God is the most fantastic designer.”
Despite retiring from active label work in 2015, Cavalli’s brand continued to showcase collections at Milan Fashion Week. His fall/winter 2024-25 collection, designed by Puglisi, was described as an “ode to metamorphosis” with polychrome marbles symbolizing a woman’s readiness to transform and evolve. The fashion house extended its condolences to Cavalli’s family, with CEO Sergio Azzolari stating that Cavalli’s legacy will always be a source of inspiration.
Roberto Cavalli is survived by six children, having been married twice and in a partnership with Sandra Nilsson since 2014. His impact on the fashion industry remains significant, with his designs continuing to influence trends and inspire creativity in the industry. Cavalli’s vision of fashion as a form of self-expression and artistry lives on through his work and the enduring legacy he has left behind.
