Rosita Missoni, Pioneering Fashion Designer and Missoni Co-Founder, Dies at 93

Rosita Missoni, Fashion Icon and Matriarch, Dies at 93

Rosita Missoni, the visionary co-founder of the iconic Italian fashion house Missoni, has passed away at the age of 93. The Missoni family and Missoni SpA confirmed that she died peacefully, marking the end of an era in the world of high fashion and Italian ready-to-wear.

Born Rosita Jelmini, she grew up in a family with deep roots in the textile industry. In 1953, she married Ottavio Missoni, and together they established the Missoni fashion house in Gallarate, a small city in northern Italy. Their journey to fashion prominence began in earnest in 1958 when the Rinascente department store commissioned 500 shirt dresses, introducing the first Missoni label to the world.

The brand’s breakthrough came in 1966 when the Missonis debuted their collection in Milan, contributing significantly to the city’s rise as a global fashion capital. Missoni quickly became synonymous with colorful zigzag-patterned knitwear, embodying wearability and timeless style.

As the brand grew, so did the family’s involvement. The Missonis’ three children played crucial roles in expanding the business. In 1997, Rosita and Ottavio handed over the reins to their children, though Rosita remained actively involved with the home collection.

The family faced significant challenges in recent years. In 2013, they endured the tragic loss of Vittorio Missoni and Ottavio Missoni. In 2018, the family sold a 41.2% stake to Italian investment fund FSI but maintained majority control. More recently, in 2021, Angela Missoni, the youngest daughter, stepped down as creative director after 24 years at the helm.

Rosita Missoni’s legacy in the fashion world is indelible. Her designs are celebrated for their vibrant patterns and adaptability across seasons. The family’s practice of modeling their creations underscored the brand’s commitment to practicality and style.

Local officials in Gallarate, where the Missoni brand originated, have expressed their condolences, recognizing Rosita’s significant impact on both the local community and the global fashion industry.

As of now, no details regarding funeral arrangements have been released. Rosita Missoni’s influence on fashion and her role in establishing Milan as a fashion hub will continue to resonate in the industry for years to come.