Angela and Ottavio Missoni Photo © Benjamin Kanarek
Ottavio Missoni passed away serenely in his home in the town of Sumirago on the outskirts of Milan, Italy . The town, is also home to the company headquarters. I had the honour of meeting, photographing and spending a very long day with Ottavio Missoni at his home for a photo shoot for VOGUE Brazil. Co-founder of the Italian fashion house known for its brightly coloured zigzag patterns. Ottavio Missoni was extremely generous, had a wonderful sense of humour and had a child like curiosity. Mr. Missoni was also very intellectually inquisitive and in the short time I did spend with him his daughter Angela and his grand-daughter Margherita, he shared many thoughts regarding the Arts, Architecture and Fashion. His wife Rosita was a extremely charming. Rosita Missoni was at the helm of the Missoni empire during their ascent.
During my shoot, Ottavio was very amusing, extremely animated and participated in the process with enthusiasm and professionalism. I was taken aback by his generosity during the production. If there was anything needed, Mr. Missoni went out of his way to be a great host and make sure we were satisfied. We were chauffeured to and from the airport by the personal chauffeur of the Missoni family and to be quite honest were treated like Royalty. A very “classy” gesture indeed.
Born on Feb. 11, 1921, in what is now Dubrovnik, in Croatia, Missoni was fond of saying he came into the fashion business practically by accident. His wife’s family owned a textile factory and produced shawls.
At the beginning, they produced athletic wear. Missoni had been a track-and-field star and competed in the 1948 Olympics. The Missonis, who often wore their own creations in everyday life, first showed their collection in Milan in 1966. Their collaboration with Target in 2011 was considered a huge success.
My condolences go out to Rosita, Angela, Margherita and all of the Missoni family.
The day and time of Missoni’s burial will be announced “soon,” according to the Missoni offices.
Rest in Peace Mr. Missoni
