Roberto Cavalli dies at 83

The Italian fashion designer Roberto Cavalli passed away this Friday in Florence at the age of 83 after a long illness that had worsened in recent weeks, according to 'La Reppublica'.

Roberto Cavalli leaves behind six children, one of whom is only one year old, and his partner of the last 15 years, Sandra Nilsson.

Roberto Cavalli was born on November 15, 1940, in Florence, Italy. From a young age, he was drawn to the world of art and fashion and developed a passion for colors, patterns, and fabrics. His grandfather was already an important and recognized artist. Roberto Cavalli studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, where he acquired his knowledge of art and design. After graduating, he began working as a textile designer, experimenting with different printing techniques and materials. His creations were characterized by vibrant colors, wild animal patterns, and a certain sensuality.

Cavalli developed an innovative technique for printing on fabrics, creating unique and exciting designs. In 1970, Roberto Cavalli founded his own fashion brand, initially known as “Roberto Cavalli”. His first collection was presented in Paris and immediately received great recognition. Cavalli's fashion was unlike any other on the market at that time. It was provocative, sensual, and emphasized femininity in a new and exciting way. The combination of bold patterns, flowing fabrics, and sophisticated cuts became his hallmark.

In the 1970s, the Cavalli brand gained international fame and was worn by celebrities such as Brigitte Bardot and Sophia Loren. Cavalli's fashion embodied the free love and artistic expression spirit prevalent at the time. His designs were a statement of individuality and self-confidence. The Cavalli brand continued to expand, adding accessories, shoes, handbags, fragrances, and even a home collection. Each product bore the unmistakable signature of Roberto Cavalli, from the striking patterns and prints to the attention to detail and the use of high-quality materials. Another milestone in Cavalli’s history was the launch of his second line, Just Cavalli, in 1998, aimed at a younger audience and offering a more modern interpretation of Cavalli's design aesthetic. Just Cavalli features bold color combinations, youthful prints, and a bold, rebellious style.

Cavalli's success was based not only on his unique creations but also on his business acumen. He recognized the potential of the international market early on and opened stores in the fashion metropolises of the world. Today, there are Cavalli boutiques in cities like Milan, Paris, London, and New York. In 2015, Roberto Cavalli sold the company and new owners took over. Despite the change in leadership, the Cavalli brand remains true to its heritage and preserves the vision of its founder. Cavalli designs are still known for their bold and sensual style that highlights femininity and grants strong charisma.

Roberto Cavalli himself received numerous awards throughout his career, including the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award and the Bambi Fashion Award. He is recognized as one of the pioneers of Italian luxury design and has significantly influenced the world of fashion with his creative vision and distinctive style. Today, the Cavalli brand represents luxury, extravagance, and sensuality. His creations are appreciated by fashion enthusiasts and celebrities around the world. Cavalli remains synonymous with a refined and provocative aesthetic that challenges the boundaries of the conventional and encourages users to highlight their own individuality and strength.