Roberto Cavalli’s Tribute Show To Its Founder Since His Passing In April 2024

Photo: Roberto Cavalli Supermodel Muses

One of the highlights during Milan Fashion Week, was Creative Director Fausto Puglisi's tribute to the late Roberto Cavalli by showcasing the brand's supermodel muses like Alek Wek, Joan Smalls, Mariacarla Boscono, Isabeli Fontana, and Natasha Poly, who graced the runway in stunning looks pulled from Cavalli's archives. The show featured seven iconic pieces designed by Roberto Cavalli, celebrating the founder's legacy and influence.

Roberto Cavalli, the legendary Italian fashion designer known for his iconic animal-print designs and bold aesthetics, was born in Florence, Italy, on November 15, 1940. He passed away at 83 on April 12, 2024, at his residence in Florence.

He launched his first boutique in 1972 in Saint-Tropez. Just three years later, in 1975, he established the iconic house of Roberto Cavalli.

Roberto Cavalli Creative Director Fausto Puglisi, shared a message on Instagram following Cavalli’s passing on April 12, 2024:

“Dear Roberto, you may not be physically here with us anymore but I know I will feel your spirit with me always. It is the greatest honour of my career to work under your legacy and to create for the brand you founded with such vision and style. Rest in peace you will be missed and you are loved by so many that your name will continue on, a beacon of inspiration for others, and especially for me” says Fausto Puglisi, Creative Director at Roberto Cavalli since October 2020.

Photo: Creative Director Fausto Puglisi With The Brand’s Iconic Supermodels

Puglisi's who has been Creative Director since October 2020, infused the collection with a seamless blend of the house's rich history and a powerful homage to its iconic founder. The show not only celebrated Cavalli's legacy but also highlighted the brand's enduring influence on the fashion world.

"For the occasion, Puglisi paid homage to the print master’s signatures, referencing some of his best fashion hits (including an iconic Aaliyah dress) and corralling a supermodel brigade led by three generations of runway icons. The collection kicked off with a series of all-white outfits before crescendoing into the sheer knits and dramatic patterns that have become synonymous with the house of Cavalli over the decades," as per W magazine.

Photo: Naomi Campbell with Roberto Cavilli’s Widow Eva Seated Front Row at the Show

“It will be 10 years since Cavalli and Eva — who was central to the design of the collections — took their last ever runway bow. That exit opened a stormy period in the house’s history. Peter Dundas was appointed Cavalli’s successor shortly afterwards, and then in April 2015, 90 per cent of the company was sold to Italian fund Clessidra. Local press reported that the deal valued the company at around €350 million, and that the Cavalli family retained just 10 per cent.-Vogue Business

Cavalli was widely recognized for his fearless and pioneering approach to fashion, which redefined glamour and luxury. His innovative creations left a distinctive mark on the fashion industry, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence countless designers and fashion enthusiasts.