tributes

See: A Handwritten Statement From Oscar de la Renta’s Family

Photo: Courtesy of Oscar de La Renta

While the passing of Oscar de la Renta was reported last night, the company had yet to make an official statement on the matter until today, when the brand issued a handwritten statement penned by Alex and Eliza Bolen, the late designer’s son-in-law and stepdaughter. (Alex is the company’s CEO.) In true de la Renta fashion, the statement is moving, elegant, and old-school in the best possible way.

Photo: Courtesy of Oscar de La Renta
Photo: Courtesy of Oscar de La Renta
Photo: Courtesy of Oscar de La Renta

Colleagues — we write to let you know that Oscar passed away tonight at home in Connecticut surrounded by family, friends, and more than a few dogs. He died exactly as he lived: with tremendous grace, great dignity and very much on his own terms.

While our hearts are broken by the idea of life without Oscar, he is still very much with us. Oscar’s hard work, his intelligence, and his love of life are at the heart of our company. All that we have done, and all that we will do, is informed by his values and his spirit. Through Oscar’s example, we know the way forward. We will make Oscar very proud of us by continuing in an even stronger way the work that Oscar loved so much.

We are working on the formal arrangements to celebrate Oscar’s life. As those plans are finalized, we will let you know.

In the meantime, thank you for your friendship and support.

Love, Alex and Eliza

See: A Statement From Oscar de la Renta’s Family