Kenzo Takada, founder of Kenzo, dies from COVID-19 aged 81

Kenzo Takada, founder of French luxury fashion house Kenzo, has died at the age of 81 due to COVID-19-related complications on Sunday, October 4.

Kenzo Takada, founder of Kenzo fashion, dies from COVID-19 complications on October 4, 2020. / Source: @kenzotakada_official (IG)

Messages of mourning from celebrities and colleagues from the fashion industry have since started pouring in.

Supermodel Naomi Campbell paid tribute to the legendary Japanese-French designer in an Instagram post.

Naomi's caption read: “So sad to hear of your loss today .. will always remember your smile and humble demeanor.. and positivity you shined on us all . Rest with the angels ♥️🏾”

Kenzo was best known for his groundbreaking designs featuring loud colors and flowers and jungle prints, which he debuted in 1970.

His designs stood out from the prim and proper collections of other French fashion houses at that time. And he was the first Japanese designer to break into the Paris fashion scene.

Kenzo started out as a clothing brand but also became a perfume and skincare empire later on.

In 1993, Kenzo became part of the luxury conglomerate LVMH, which also owns Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Givenchy, to name a few.

The renowned fashion designer retired in 1999 to pursue other creative endeavors.

Earlier this year, Kenzo launched K3, a new lifestyle brand which offers luxurious interiors.

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You might also want to read about Filipino designer Ito Curata who also died from COVID-19.