Iconic fashion designer Roberto Cavalli dies aged 83

Roberto Cavalli through the years.

Fashion icon Roberto Cavalli has passed away at the age of 83 in Florence.

Coming from a family steeped in artistry, Cavalli's heritage included his grandfather Giuseppe Rossi, a prominent figure in the Macchiaioli movement with works displayed at the esteemed Uffizi Gallery in Florence. Cavalli's artistic flair was evident in his fashion creations, honed through his studies at the Art Institute of Florence.

In 1970, he launched his eponymous fashion label and debuted his inaugural collection at the Salon du Prêt-à-Porter in Paris, held at the Porte de Versailles. Known for his innovative techniques, Cavalli patented a groundbreaking printing process on leather in the early 1970s, a milestone in fashion.

Roberto Cavalli at Regine’s in New York City in 1987.

Eva Cavalli (L) and Roberto Cavalli attend the 73rd Academy Awards Ceremony at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles in 2001.

His early successes included the opening of his first boutique, Limbo, in Saint Tropez in 1972. The following year, his leather creations were showcased in the prestigious Sala Bianca in Florence alongside renowned brands like Missoni, Krizia, Fendi, and Basile.

Cavalli's personal life intertwined with his professional journey. After marrying Silvanella Giannoni in 1977, he later met Eva Maria Düringer at the Miss Universe pageant in 1980, whom he wed. Düringer became a significant collaborator and was appointed creative director of his brand in 1994. Their union resulted in three children: Rachele, Daniele, and Robin. From his first marriage, he had two children: Cristiana and Tommaso. In recent years, Cavalli welcomed a son named Giorgio with model Sandra Nilsson-Bergman.

Fashion designer Roberto Cavalli and singer Melba Moore on March 16, 1987, dine at Regine’s in New York City.

His flamboyant designs, characterized by bold animal prints, distressed denim, and glamorous dresses, earned him global acclaim. Notably, he struck a collaboration with H&M in 2007, showcasing his widespread popularity. Cavalli's influence extended beyond fashion, with his luxurious lifestyle aboard his metallic purple yacht RC and gatherings with celebrities in tow.

Roberto Cavalli at the Whitney Museum in New York City in 1999

Roberto Cavalli at a Jaguar event in 2001.

Despite his success, Cavalli remained candid, expressing his views on fashion and creativity. He authored an autobiography titled "Just Me!" in 2014, shedding light on his life's significant moments, including personal tragedies and professional triumphs.

As his fashion empire evolved over the years, changing ownership and design leadership, Cavalli's legacy as a visionary designer and charismatic personality endures. His brand continues to resonate under new creative direction, preserving the essence of his original vision.

Designer Roberto Cavalli walks down the runway at the spring 2003 Cavalli show in Milan.

Designer Roberto Cavalli holds his award during the Fashion Group International Presents The 19th Annual Night Of Stars Honoring “The Provcateurs: Those Who Dare” on Oct. 4, 2002, in New York City.

Kimora Lee Simmons and Roberto Cavalli during the “Maid in Manhattan” premiere after-party at The Rainbow Room in New York City.

Roberto Cavalli and Heidi Klum during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week fall 2003 at Time Magazine Launches Style and Design Issue event in New York City.

Roberto Cavalli during the 2003 Cannes Film Festival – Chopard and Roberto Cavalli Press Day at Martinez in Cannes, France.

Roberto Cavalli and Eva Cavalli during Bloomberg Hosts Pre Cocktail Party For 2005 Whitehouse Correspondents Association Dinner in Washington, D.C., in 2005.