Sonia Rykiel, a French fashion designer, passed away at the age of 86 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease.
The sad news was announced by Élysée Palace, the office of the French president, and her daughter Nathalie, the New York Times reports.
Sonia spent decades designing clothes for women, and retired back in 2009. Her daughter became the company’s president in 2007.
“She is fragile, but strong,” Sonia told the NYT in 1987 about her typical customer. “We are working women. Also, we have the problem of children, of men, to take care of our houses, so many things. I try to explain that in my clothes. They are clothes for everyday life.”
Sonia‘s designs were a favorite among A-list celebrities on the red carpet. We’re sending our thoughts to her loved ones during this time.
