Rosita Missoni, co-founder of the celebrated Italian fashion house Missoni, has passed away at the age of 93. Known as a trailblazer, her innovative use of colour, patterns, and knitwear revolutionised the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion.
According to reports, Missoni passed away peacefully in her hometown of Gallarate, northern Italy, on the 2nd January, surrounded by her family. Her passing was confirmed in a statement from the Missoni fashion house, which paid tribute to her life and enduring legacy.
Born Rosita Jelmini in 1931, she grew up in a family with a strong tradition in textiles, laying the groundwork for her future career. In 1953, Rosita married Ottavio Missoni, a former Olympic hurdler. Together, they founded Missoni in 1953, merging her knowledge of textiles with his creative vision. What started as a modest knitwear brand grew into an internationally renowned luxury label.
Missoni’s signature zigzag patterns, stripes, and kaleidoscopic colours became iconic, challenging conventional notions of knitwear. Their work gained global recognition in the 1960s when the fashion house was invited to showcase its designs in Florence. By the 1970s, Missoni had become synonymous with effortless elegance and avant-garde aesthetics.
Missoni’s business was a family endeavour. Rosita remained an integral part of the company even after handing over the creative reins to her daughter, Angela, in the 1990s. Under Angela’s guidance, Missoni continued to thrive, while Rosita shifted her focus to homewares, spearheading the successful Missoni Home line.
Despite her monumental success, Rosita was known for her humility and her commitment to family values. She once described the Missoni brand as an extension of her family’s identity, blending tradition with innovation.
Angela Missoni described her mother as “a force of nature whose passion and creativity were unmatched.” Meanwhile, fellow designers and industry leaders have also paid homage, with many crediting Missoni as an inspiration for their own careers.
As the world remembers Rosita Missoni, her legacy lives on through her family, the brand she built, and the countless lives she touched with her artistry and vision. Her passing marks the end of an era, but her influence will no doubt continue to shape the world of fashion for decades to come.
