Senior directors at French fashion house Sonia Rykiel, including
artistic director Julie de Libran, have issued tributes to the legendary
French designer who August 25, aged 86, after a long
battle with Parkinson.
In a statement from the Sonia Rykiel business, the fashion label
expressed that the fashion world had lost “an icon, a pioneer and a huge
chocolate lover”. They added that Rykiel was “more than a designer, she was
an extraordinary woman and an artist who devoted her life to women and
their freedom.”
Current artistic director Julie de Libran, who has been with the fashion
house since 2014 recalled her first meeting with the legendary designer:
“My first moment meeting Sonia Rykiel at her home will stay in my heart as
a very beautiful memory. I was very touched by the charm and grace of this
unique woman who truly defined what it means to be iconic.
“She will be greatly missed but her style, legacy, and spirit will never
be forgotten and will live on to continue inspiring women around the
world.”
Chief executive of Sonia Rykiel, Eric Langon described the late designer
as “essentially and uniquely free”.
Landon added: “She embodied remarkably this spirit of
Saint-Germain-des-Pres. All of us, in the house she created in 1968, are
deeply saddened by her passing away and express our deepest condolences to
her family.”
Chairman and chief executive of investor First Heritage Brands Jean-Marc
Loubier offered condolences to her family including her children Jean
Philippe and Nathalie, who was formerly artistic director of the house and
remains a creative consultant.
Loubier added: “My thoughts are also with all the members of La Maison
Rykiel who are so devoted and so proud to write its history, daily. But
this extraordinary woman offers us an exceptional legacy. She is a pioneer
woman who helped change our society always putting together creation,
culture, and clothes to serve women and their rising role in the world.
This legacy is alive and more than ever is the future.”
Sabrina Fung, group managing director at Fung Retailing, also issued a
tribute, stating: “We are deeply sadden by the passing away of Madame Sonia
Rykiel and out family extends our condolences to Nathalie, her daughters,
and the family members. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.
“As a family and as close partners we are proud to carry on the legacy
of Madame Sonia Rykiel whose talent and skills have made an everlasting
mark on the world of fashion.”
Sonia Rykiel founded her label in 1968 and became known as the “Queen of
Knitwear” following the success of her signature striped knitwear, in
particular, the poor boy sweater, which had long sleeves and a fitted shape
and was worn by fashion icons including Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte
Bardot.
Image: courtesy of Sonia Rykiel