The iconic French fashion designer Manfred Thierry Mugler has died aged 73. The designer was known for his theatrical creations that were, over the years, sported by some of the biggest names in the music and movie business, including Madonna, Lady Gaga and Cardi B among several others.
Mugler, who founded his eponymous brand in 1973 is known for his metamorphic silhouettes and, indeed, the best-selling perfume, Angel.
“We are devastated to announce the passing of Mr Manfred Thierry Mugler…May his soul Rest In Peace,” read an announcement released on his Instagram account.
Hi fashion label was amongst the most influential in the 1980s and 90s, when he teamed up with names such as Claude Montana and Azzedine Alaïa. Thanks especially to his shapely suits, he achieved substantial commercial success during the period. It was during this period that he launched his iconic Angel fragrance.
In 2003, Mugler stepped away from his brand, which is now owned by L’Oréal, however, he created a stir again with his design for Kim Kardashian at Met Gala in 2019. Meanwhile, a retrospective exhibition of his work also opened in Montréal in March 2019. Most recently, the exhibition saw a pop-up at the Musee des Arts Décoratifs in Paris in October 2021.
Mugler’s dramatic vintage designs also earned him a new crop of devotees who often donned his creations in movies, music videos and on the red carpet. Notable among these are his designs in singer Lady Gaga’s Telephone music video. Singer Cardi B was often spotted wearing his vintage designs on the red carpet. In fact, she name-checked his brand in the song Wild Side.
One of the true visionaries of the fashion world, Mugler leaves behind a legacy of some of the most remarkable designs to ever grace the runway and beyond.
