The fashion world is celebrating the life of fashion designer Alber Elbaz, who has tragically died at the age of 59 after contracting COVID-19.
The sad and sudden news of the fashion designer’s death was confirmed on Saturday. Elbaz was widely known for his work in revitalising french fashion house Lavin, from 2001 until his dismissal in 2015.
The fashion figure has always been distinct with his statement glasses and signature bow ties. Elbaz’s personal and professional life had no line of separation. He has been recognised for his many iconic creations, including the dress that Meryl Streep wore for her 2012 Best Actress Oscar win. The legendary fashion director also worked with many other famous figures such as Nicole Kidman, Kate Moss, Cate Blanchett and Julianne Moore.
Tributes and messages of sadness have been flowing worldwide for the fashion figure. Chairman of Swiss-based luxury goods Richemont, Johann Rupert, paid his respects, stating,
“I was always taken by his intelligence, sensitivity, generosity and unbridled creativity.“
Source: Reuters
Actress Julianne Moore also voiced her sadness upon hearing of Elbaz’s death,
“So shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Alber Elbaz, a man who’s immense talent was only surpassed by his exceptional kindness.”
Source: Yahoo News
In addition, Stella McCartney and Naomi Campbell paid tribute to Elbaz via their Instagram accounts.
Meanwhile, Political figures joined in to pay their respects, recognising the life-long legacy left after Elbaz’s passing. French President Emmanuel Macron shared his own small tribute,
“He made French elegance shine around the world. He extended and enriched the line of designers who forged the legend of French elegance.”
Source: Reuters
Life-long Passion
Alber Elbaz was born in Casablanca, Morocco in 1961. His Mother was a painter and his father was a hair colourist. From an early age Elbaz had a love for drawing, especially sketching dresses. The young fashion enthusiast had much love and respect for women, especially his mother for whom he was very fond.
Elbaz graduated from Shenkar College of Textile Technology and Fashion, before departing for New York in 1987, to chase his career in fashion. While in New York, Elbaz started working for Geoffrey Beene, captivated by Beene’s trends and masterful draping techniques.
In 1996, Elbaz began working at French couture house Guy Laroche, as a creative director. His sense of style and perspective added immense value to the fashion house and its market.
Lanvin Leader
The fashion star went from strength to strength, moving on to a design position in 1998 at Yves Saint Laurent.
Meanwhile, Elbaz’s motivation and passion for fashion meant that his career became his life-long love, as he explains,
“For me, this isn’t a career move, but the realisation of my life’s dream.”
Source: Grazia Daily
Elbaz also worked for Krizia in Italy leading up to his Lanvin tenure, but only lasted for a short period due to a dispute with the label’s founder. In 2001, his commencement as Creative Director of Lavin would lead him into the 21st century with designs that have been described as ultra-feminine and shaped with the finest of fabrics.
Vogue described how Elbaz’s leadership at Lanvin anchored his well-known reputation in the industry, “Elbaz has made the label one of the most covetable in the industry, fusing its rich heritage with his own unique twist.”
He is remembered for this dedication and resounding impact on the fashion industry.
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