Farewell fashion maestro, Oscar de la Renta

Fashion maestro, Oscar de la Renta who etched his name and creation in the hearts and minds of most fashion icons, died at the age of 82.

Dubbed the “Sultan of Suave”, this Dominican American fashion designer was diagnosed with cancer in 2006; however, his cause of death, according to close family and friends, was not immediately clear.

For half a century, throughout his career, de la Renta had gracefully, with his timeless creations, dressed powerful women of the world in his haute couture. This included the likes of first ladies, world renowned brides, celebrities and the everyday women who go for power lunch.

From Jacqueline Kennedy to Hillary Clinton, Mrs. George Clooney, Amal Alamuddin to Oprah Winfrey and Liza Minelli to Sarah Jessica Parker, this award-winning designer who graced the house of Lanvin and Balmain in the early years, managed to exude the glamour factor so effortlessly in the most classic feminine lines and architecture of his red carpet worthy gowns and evening wear.

Today, the world of fashion mourns the death of this award-winning fashion designer. And here are some of what Malaysia’s notable fashion players have to say about de la Renta’s passing.

The Fashion Editor of In Trend Magazine, Megat Iqbal Mukhtaram or Vee, said Oscar de la Renta has always been ‘the’ name in fashion. In the past five decades, de la Renta was among the most respected name in the fashion arena, even Anna Wintour the English editor-in-chief of American Vogue, sought his intellectual discourse in fashion.

“With appearance on Sex and the City and a documentary called The September Issue, Oscar de La Renta will stay forever young in the industry…it is a sad day for fashion, nonetheless, his exquisite taste and impeccable style will always be remembered” Vee added.

For seasoned stylist and consultant, Zaihani Zain who styled many individuals involved in the numerous award-winning programmes on Astro, said Oscar de la Renta was instead one of those old school couturiers.

“The fact that his brand have survived till today, I think he is someone from the past millennia that we have had to reckon with. He is more of a fashion royalty to me” said Zaihani.

Young designer, Syomir Izwa, most famous for his colour-blocking cruise wear said that he is saddened by the news. De la Renta has been such an inspiration to his career and creations.

“I was only 8 years old when I fell in love with Oscar de la Renta’s masterpiece. It was a gown on a limited edition Barbie doll. I am always fascinated with his way of showing classic lines and elements of richness and always stay relevant, every time, all times”, said Syomir.

“It’s not easy designing one dress that would attract a 27- year old woman and loved by a 70 - year old. But he did it. Same dress that’s here to stay forever,” Syomir added.

Meanwhile on the social media platform, fashion enthusiasts expressed their sadness, including TV personality and fashion aficionado, Marion Caunter.

“Oscar de la Renta. You made some of the most beautiful dresses girls everywhere in the world would only dream of wearing. Thank you for all the years of magical beauty. RIP” said Marion on Instagram.

"Fashion is about dressing according to what's fashionable. Style is more about being yourself" - Oscar de la Renta.