The world has lost an iconic fashion figure known for his larger-than-life personality.
As an instrumental figure in transforming the industry, André Leon Talley, fashion icon and former Vogue creative director has passed away at the age of 73.
A statement announcing his death was released via his official Instagram page.
“It is with great sadness we announce the passing of André Leon Talley on January 18, 2022 in New York,” the statement read. “Mr. Talley was the larger-than-life, longtime creative director at Vogue during its rise to dominance as the world’s fashion bible.
“Over the past five decades as an international icon was a close confidant of Yves Saint Laurent, Karl Lagerfeld, Paloma Picasso, Diane von Furstenberg, Bethann Hardison, Manolo Blahnik and he had a penchant for discovering, nurturing and celebrating young designers. ”
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While the specific cause of the death is uncertain, per TMZ, he had been in the hospital battling an unknown illness.
One of the first tributes posted was by Andre’s close friend and fashion designer Diane Von Fürstenberg.
“Good bye darling André, No one saw the world in a more glamorous way than you did, no one was grander and more soulful than you were, the world will be less joyful, I have loved you and laughed with you for 45 years…. I miss your loud screams …I love you soooo much,” she said on Instagram.
Back in 2020, Andre opened up about his “fairytale” story and career, which he admitted there were some dark periods.
“My story is a fairytale of excess, and in every fairytale, there is evil and darkness, but you overcome it with light,” he told The Guardian at the time.
“I want every person I come across – the stranger on the street, the church member in the pew next to me – to feel love. I have not been privy to love in my life, but I want them to feel that they have received some love from engaging with me, André Leon Talley,” he added.
During his career, Andre made many notable contributions that made him stand out from the rest. From being a stylist for the First Family during Barak Obama’s presidency to working as a judge on the reality television show America’s Next Top Model.
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He will always be known for his loyal and go-getter attitude, which led him to achieve multiple milestones during his career.
The world remembers André, as he has undoubtedly contributed immensely to the world of fashion.
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Feature Image: Getty
