Rosita Missoni, the matriarch of the iconic Italian fashion house renowned for its vibrant zigzag-patterned knitwear, has passed away at the age of 93. The Missoni family and Missoni SpA announced her peaceful passing on Wednesday in a joint statement.

A Legacy of Innovation in Fashion

Born Rosita Jelmini, Missoni grew up in a family that owned a textile factory specializing in shawls. Her upbringing immersed her in the world of textiles, laying the foundation for her illustrious career in fashion. After meeting and marrying Ottavio Missoni, the couple founded their eponymous fashion house in Gallarate, Italy, in 1953. What began as an artisan’s shop would evolve into a globally recognized brand synonymous with Italian luxury.

The Missonis’ big break came in 1958 when Rinascente, a prestigious Italian department store, commissioned 500 colorful, vertically striped shirt dresses—the first to bear the Missoni label. Eight years later, in 1966, the Missonis debuted their collection in Milan, helping to establish the city as a global fashion capital. The brand’s bold designs and trademark zigzag patterns became an emblem of wearability and timeless style, defying fleeting fashion trends.

The Family Business

Rosita and Ottavio Missoni turned over the business to their children in 1997, although Rosita continued to play a significant role in the Missoni Home collection. Over the decades, family members often modeled the brand’s graphic creations, making their designs a hallmark of everyday elegance.

The Missoni legacy faced significant challenges in 2013, a year marked by profound loss. Vittorio Missoni, the eldest son and CEO, tragically died in a plane crash off the coast of Venezuela. The plane wreckage was only discovered six months later. During this difficult period, Ottavio Missoni, Rosita’s husband and creative partner, passed away at the age of 92.

In 2018, the family sold a 41.2% stake of the company to the Italian investment fund FSI while retaining majority control. Three years later, Angela Missoni, the youngest daughter, stepped down as creative director after 24 years at the helm.

A Lasting Impact

Throughout her life, Rosita Missoni remained a pivotal figure in the world of fashion, celebrated for her vision and dedication to the craft. Her contributions extended beyond the runway, influencing the realms of home design and ready-to-wear fashion.

The Missoni brand’s origins and Rosita’s legacy are deeply tied to the northern Italian city of Gallarate, where local officials expressed condolences and remembered her enduring contributions. The Missoni house began its journey there, transforming from a small workshop into a global dynasty over its 70-year history.

Remembering Rosita Missoni

Rosita Missoni’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Italy’s most celebrated fashion dynasties. As the family and the world mourn her loss, her impact on the fashion industry and her role in shaping Italian style will be remembered for generations to come.

Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced.