Roberto Cavalli, the fashion designer and founder of namesake brand Roberto Cavalli, has died at age 83. The Italian design house announced his passing via Instagram, along with memorable quotes from Cavalli and heartfelt messages from Creative Director Fausto Puglisi and CEO Sergio Azzolari.
Puglisi said, “Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore but I know I will feel your spirit with me always. It is the greatest honour of my career to work under your legacy and to create for the brand you founded with such vision and style. Rest in peace 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.”
Cavalli founded the brand in 1975. Since then, he built a legacy of innovation, experimentation, and playfulness. The label has been known to create unforgettable fashion and pop culture moments.
Notably, Cavalli’s brand has continuously worked with Zendaya and Law Roach. Recently, the duo pulled vintage Cavalli for the Green Carpet Fashion Awards. In 2021, they also pulled the iconic skeleton back gown from the Autumn/Winter 2000 collection for the Ballon d’Or Ceremony.
In line with Cavalli’s penchant for animal print, the tiger dress Aaliyah wore in 2000 has become an iconic moment in fashion history. Over two decades later, Bretman Rock wore the vintage dress, honoring her legacy.
Similarly, Cavalli’s impact continues to show in the fashion world with young talent drawing upon his designs and styles. As Azzolari said, “His legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.”