The Spanish fashion designer passed away at the age of 88

It was always about pushing the limits of design for legendary fashion designer Paco Rabanne. With that, he was able to produce pieces that aren’t only ahead of their time but initiated a new fashion movement that is still relevant to modern style. Today, the global fashion community mourns the passing of the Spanish designer. His unfortunate demise was confirmed by his namesake brand through a statement shared on social media.

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“The House of Paco Rabanne wishes to honor our visionary designer and founder who passed away today at the age of 88. Among the most seminal fashion figures of the 20th century, his legacy will remain a constant source of inspiration,” the brand posted. “We are grateful to Monsieur Rabanne for establishing our avant-garde heritage and defining a future of limitless possibilities.”

Born in 1934, Paco followed in his mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in the fashion industry. He studied architecture at Paris’ Beaux Arts Academie before shifting to couture. In the 1960s, he began producing designs made of unconventional materials.

His “12 unwearable dresses in contemporary materials” collection featured garments that are made of hammered metal, paper, chain mail, and pliable plastics, creating out-of-this-world designs, which also help led the space-age movement in fashion.

One of his key works was his first fragrance called Calandre, which means “automobile grill” in 1969 for his eponymous brand.

Soon enough, his works were worn by celebrities and made their way to the screens. He crafted costumes for 1967’s “Casino Royale” film and Jane Fonda’s “Barbarella” in 1968.

Today, many fashion designers, houses, and creatives continue to pay homage to the late designer with regard to his style innovation and futuristic visions.

“I think fashion is prophetic. Fashion announces the future,” he said in an interview archive of France’s National Audiovisual Institute. “The future for me is catastrophic.”

According to Le Telegramme newspaper, David Robo, mayor of Vannes in France, noted that Paco “died at his home in the Brittany region town of Portsall.”

Rest in peace, Paco Rabanne.

Featured image by Federick Florin/AFP via Getty Images

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Paco Rabanne’s legacy in fashion