Leading fashion designer Oscar de la Renta, who for years has transformed members of high society into fashion icons, has died at the age of 82.
The fashion industry, politically influential elites and Hollywood stars are all mourning the loss of a great talent and someone who was renowned for his elegant gowns that boast of beautiful propriety and prestige. De la Renta first entered fashion’s centre stage in the 60s, designing many items for Jackie Kennedy. Since then, Nancy Reagan, Princess Diana, Hillary Clinton and countless A-List celebrities have exhibited his powerful and unique designs.
Oscar de la Renta, born on July 22, 1932 in the Dominican Republic left for Spain at the age of 18 to study at the Academy of San Fernando in Madrid. It was here that he developed his passion for fashion and worked as an apprentice for Cristobal Balenciaga, Spain’s leading designer of the era.
His next step took him the fashion capital of Paris, where his talents were immediately spotted by Lanvin fashion house. After two years in Paris, the bright lights of New York beckoned and by 1965 the Oscar de la Renta brand emerged, attracting the 20th Century’s most elegant women to wear his designs.
It is certain that we will all miss the charming Oscar de la Renta as he was a special talent. However, he has not gone: his name will be heard, echoing around the world of fashion as his timeless elegant and graceful style shall continue to influence fashion enthusiasts for generations to come. May Oscar de la Renta rest in peace but forever remain alive in our hearts!
