Paco Rabanne dead: Spanish designer dies aged 88

Paco Rabanne has died aged 88.

The Spanish designer, born Francisco Rabaneda y Cuervo, was known best known for his metallic ensembles and space age designs of the 1960s

He died in Portsall, Britanny.

The news was confirmed by a spokesperson for Spanish group Puig, which controls the Paco Rabanne label he exited two decades ago.

A statement seen by WWD written by the president of Puig’s fashion and beauty division read: “Paco Rabanne made transgression magnetic. Who else could induce fashionable Parisian women to clamour for dresses made of plastic and metal?

“Who but Paco Rabanne could imagine a fragrance called Calandre – the word means ‘automobile grill’, you know – and turn it into an icon of modern femininity?”

“That radical, rebellious spirit set him apart: There is only one Rabanne.

“With his passing, we are reminded once again of his enormous influence on contemporary fashion, a spirit that lives on in the house that bears his name.”

The official Instagram account of Paco Rabanne shared the news with fans.
Instagram: Paco Rabanne

A statement shared on the official Instagram account of Paco Rabanne, said: “The House of Paco Rabanne wishes to honour 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.

“We are grateful to Monsieur Rabanne for establishing our avant-garde heritage and defining a future of limitless possibilities.”

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.