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Beauty & Style

Nation mourns the loss of Carla Zampatti

The world lost Carla Zampatti on April 3, and the nation is still mourning the loss of the Australian designer,

Fans were sent into a shockwave after they heard of the star’s unexpected passing.

The 78-year-old talent had been one to contend with in the fashion industry for decades with her chic designs and unique eye.


She suffered a serious fall at the opening of opera La Traviata at Mrs Macquarie's Point in Sydney a week prior to her passing.

She remained in a coma after being admitted to St. Vincent's Hospital before passing away a week later.

The official page of Carla Zampatti made a devastating statement on Saturday: "It's with great sadness that we announce the death of fashion icon Carla Zampatti AC today."

The statement continued: "Carla is Australia's most successful and enduring fashion designer, launching her eponymous label in 1965. Carla has long been celebrated for making Australian women feel confident and elegant through her exceptional design, tailoring and understanding of the modern woman."

Some of Australia’s most well-known celebrities took to social media to honour the fashion designer.

Celebrity stylist Lana Wilkinson wrote: "A true icon of our industry, what a heartbreaking loss. My deepest condolences."

Anna Heinrich also said: "What a woman, what an inspiration."

Model Erin Holland shared her own tribute to the designer, writing: "So incredibly saddened by this news. It's been an honour to wear your iconic pieces across the years. A true superstar and innovator ahead of the times."

Lisa Wilkinson took to Instagram to share some of her most well-worn looks by Carla, saying:
"For all of my professional life I've been loving, buying and wearing Carla.

“To this day I still wear a gorgeous classic black dress of Carla's I bought on lay-by when I was just 19.


"Her pieces were and are, always timeless."

Lisa continued: "The woman herself was an absolute champion of women - as well as grace and elegance personified. It was always a privilege to be in her company."

Deborah Hutton also shared a beautiful tribute for Carla, writing: "Still in shock... so sad to see the passing of such an iconic Australian fashion legend."

"A trailblazer who set new standards of elegance and tailoring back in the late 70's. Was working with her in my early modelling days around 1980 and have continued to reach out for a 'Carla' when the occasion needed something special...this here hosting #starlightchildrensfoundation Gala Dinner a few years back."

Deb went on to say: "She has left a lasting legacy for others to follow and will always stay in our hearts. Carla thank you for everything you've contributed, you will be missed."

Carla's daughter and designer, Bianca Spender, shared her own thoughts on losing her mother.

"Today I lost my mother, my inspiration, my mentor and my friend. I am lost for words and totally heartbroken," Bianca wrote alongside two gorgeous photographs of herself with her mother.

Zampatti is survived by her three children: Alexander Schuman, Bianca Spender and Allegra Spender, along with her nine grandchildren.

Tags:
Carla Zampatti, designer, Australia, death, beauty, fashion