Alber Elbaz, former Lanvin designer, dies due to COVID-19
The fashion industry mourns the death of legendary designer Alber Elbaz, who sadly passed away at age 59 due to COVID-19.
Elbaz is best remembered for his work at French fashion house, Lanvin, as its designer and creative director.
He helmed the transformation of the fashion house from a sleeping beauty to a thriving brand known for its feminine aesthetic.
Before his remarkable tenure in Lanvin, Elbaz also worked for such designers as Geoffrey Beene and Guy Laroche.
In 1996, he was tapped to become the successor of Yves Saint Laurent as designer of YSL's Rive Gauche line.
He joined Lanvin's team in 2001 and stunned everyone when he left suddenly in 2014.
Elbaz took a hiatus for seven years but did a few collaborations with brands like Tod's, Converse and Lancome.
Just last January, he shocked everyone again--but this time for a good reason--by announcing the launch of his new fashion label AZ Fashion.
AZ Fashion became popular as a size-inclusive label that created figure-flattering dresses.
Since the announcement of Elbaz's death, messages of condolences and tributes have poured in on social media from fans, celebrities and even other greats in the fashion industry.
The forever youthful and stylish Vera Wang honored Elbaz on an IG post, which partly reads: “A true creator, one of fashions true originals, both beloved and respected not only for his reinvention of la maison LANVIN... but his contributions to all of the houses that were fortunate to witness his creativity and versatility.
“But to know Alber was to experience his loyalty, humility, work ethic, humor and enormous charm.
“For one who left our world way to soon, Alber, you are already missed .. RIP X 🖤”
Designer and friend of Elbaz, Stella McCartney also paid tribute to him by sharing a sweet photo of them together.
Part of her caption reads, “He was a light like no other in the world. In fashion, his immense talent shone so bright that it tore up the conventions and wrapped a million souls in happiness when they wore his creations.
“I will miss you sir very, very much. We all will. My love is being sent to your beloved family as they try to come to terms with such an immense loss. Thank you for making this world a better and brighter place... I love you. x”
Reality star and entrepreneur Kim Kardashian reminisced about her fondest memories with the late fashion legend.
Part of Kim's post reads. “My first time to Paris I was surprised with a lunch with Alber and I almost fainted when he walked in. He was the most warm and welcoming.
“Alber dressed me for my first Vogue cover and gifted me with the cover dress to hold onto that memory forever.
“Then Alber and Lanvin dressed me to the first Met Ball I was invited to on my own.
“Our fittings were filled with laughs and hugs! What a sweet soul. I will cherish all of our memories forever. 🕊”
Designer Marc Jacobs and actress Gabrielle Union reacted to the shocking news of Elbaz's death on Diet Prada's IG post.
Marc Jacobs mourn the passing of Lavin designer Alber Elbaz / Source: diet_prada (IG)
Supermodel Helena Christensen, who recently walked the Michael Kors 40th anniversary runway show, and actress Selma Blair also mourned the death of the well-loved designer.
Supermodel Helena Christensen and actress Selma Bair pays tribute to Alber Elbaz / Source: @lanvinofficial (IG)
The Philippines's very own, iconic designer Rajo Laurel, and actress-TV host KC Concepcion also expressed their sadness over the untimely death of Elbaz.
Rajo Laurel an KC Concepcion remember fashion legend Alber Elbaz / Source: @rajolaurel (IG)
Celebrity stylist Liz Uy and renowned Filipino designer Francis Libiran also reacted to Lanvin's post honoring the late fashion legend.
Liz Uy and Francis Libiran reacts to Alber Elbaz's untimely death / Source: lanvinofficial (IG)
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You might also want to read about another fashion icon who passed away due to COVID-19, Kenzo Takada.