Alber Elbaz at the 2019 Fashion Awards in London. Image credit: Getty
The fashion industry, led by Richemont chairman Yohann Rupert, mourned the passing of famed designer Alber Elbaz. He was 59.
The Moroccan-born Israeli fashion designer passed away April 24 of complications from COVID-19. After having served creative stints at Lanvin, Geoffrey Beene, Guy Laroche and Yves Saint Laurent, he was most recently founder of AZ Factory, a label backed by Cartier owner Richemont.
“It was with shock and enormous sadness that I heard of Alber’s sudden passing,” Mr. Rupert said in a statement.
“Alber had a richly deserved reputation as one of the industry’s brightest and most beloved figures,” he said. “I was always taken by his intelligence, sensitivity, generosity and unbridled creativity. He was a man of exceptional warmth and talent, and his singular vision, sense of beauty and empathy leave an indelible impression.
“It was a great privilege watching Alber in his last endeavor as he worked to realize his dreams of ‘smart fashion that cares’. His inclusive vision of fashion made women feel beautiful and comfortable by blending traditional craftsmanship with technology – highly innovative projects which sought to redefine the industry.
“Alber will be greatly missed by all of us who had the good fortune to know him or work with him. On behalf of all of my colleagues at Richemont and AZ Factory, I wish to extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
“On a personal note I would like to add that I have lost not only a colleague but a beloved friend.
“Rest in peace Alber.”