When designers are discussed, even fashion non-aficionados recognize certain names: Gucci, Dior, Versace, Chanel. And Oscar de la Renta.
At 82, de la Renta’s passing on Monday marked the end of a red-carpet staple. His gowns have graced celebrities, brides and first ladies for over 50 years – from Jackie O. to Oprah Winfrey to Michelle Obama.
De la Renta’s most recent bridal gown was designed for lawyer Amal Alamuddin’s wedding to George Clooney. In a behind-the-scenes feature with Vogue, de la Renta said that a wedding dress is the most important dress in the life of any woman.
Born in the Dominican Republic in 1932, de la Renta was the first Dominican to design for a French couture house before starting his own label in 1965. Although he remains most well known for his evening and bridal wear, de la Renta expanded to retail stores, perfume, accessories and, most recently, housewares.
While many designers’ seasonal showings fluctuate with the trends and their moods, de la Renta’s timeless classics held fast – not only for their ties to Hollywood glamor but also for their elegant, flattering lines and bright colors.
De la Renta helped to define American couture as we know it today. In picturing a modern gown, the clean shapes and full skirts are those of de la Renta’s work.
De la Renta’s designs never failed to make a woman look beautiful while embracing completely who she is. And whether the dress was seen on the red carpet, runway or down the aisle, it somehow remained optimistically romantic.
Not only that, de la Renta’s thoughtful designs reflected just how much he respected women and their bodies, never objectifying nor incorporating the amount of insensitivity found often in the work and actions of so many male designers today.
Although de la Renta only named his replacement last week – British designer Peter Copping – he has been battling cancer since 2006.
A year after his diagnosis, de la Renta spoke on his health at the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
“We always think we are going to live forever. The dying aspect we will never accept,” de la Renta said. “The one thing about having this kind of warning is how you appreciate every single day of life.”
– Natalie Green