Legendary handbag designer Carlos Falchi passed away on Friday at the age of 70. During his career, starting in the late 60s and stretching over several decades, the Brazilian-born bag maker’s unique patchwork method garnered attention from some of the industry’s most influential tastemakers, launching him from obscurity to the creator of some of the most coveted bags in fashion. His work has been seen on the arms of such iconic clientele as Jackie O, Tina Turner, Blake Lively, Mary J. Blige and Rihanna.
Falchi’s bags have been sold at retailers like Henri Bendel and Saks Fifth Avenue, and his work has won him accolades from the Independent Handbag Designer Awards (2007), the Accessories Council of America (2004) and more.
The designer has had his share of ups and downs in his career. After enjoying overwhelming popularity in the 80s, Falchi expanded his business too quickly and began to lose money, causing him to shut down his company in the 90s in order to get back on his feet. His label was purchased in 2009 by Windsong Brands LLC and Marvin Traub Associates, who resurrected his line as Falchi Holdings LLC, taking the designer on to once again serve at the helm of his own label.
Falchi will always remain one of the most iconic handbag and accessory makers of his generation and will be forever remembered and sorely missed.
[via WWD, Carlos Flachi]
