British Designer Antony Price, Famed for Creating Looks for Iconic Acts Like Bowie and Duran Duran, Has Died Aged 80.
Antony Price, the visionary UK-based designer who crafted some of the most iconic looks associated with musical icons like Bowie and members of Roxy Music, as well as Queen Camilla, has died at the age of 80.
His reputation was built on his architectural shapes and performative fashion, most notably the soft-colored suits that appeared in rock band Duran Duran's classic music video for "their hit Rio".
"In a tribute, they called him a 'visionary' and a 'kind, intelligent and razor-witted friend,' Duran Duran shared a message online."
His passing follows shortly after he presented his newest line in London, marking his return to the runway after over three decades. Artist Lily Allen showcased a dress inspired by the iconic black velvet "so-called 'revenge dress'" made famous by the late Princess Diana.
A Lasting Legacy
Born in Yorkshire in 1945, Price headed for London during the sixties to attend the renowned Royal College of Art.
Upon completing his studies, he started his work in men's fashion at the company Stirling Copper and was responsible for the tight, button-detailed trousers that Sir Mick Jagger famously wore during the band's "Gimme Shelter" tour in the late sixties.
He launched his own brand in 1979 and presented his inaugural collection a year later. The show opened with creations worn by the famed model Jerry Hall, who was also seen in the wedding dress Price designed for her for her wedding to Sir Mick Jagger.
Partnerships with Stars
A long-time collaborator of the late David Bowie, Price created the memorable jacket the singer wore for his "As The World Falls Down" music video in 1986.
His trademark skill to merge elements of men's and women's fashion along with his masterful technique in shaping form-fitting garments cemented his status as a "true original," according to the British Fashion Council.
In the 1990s, he began working on ensembles for the then-Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla, including a number of outfits for her American tour following her marriage.
Following a profession lasting over fifty years, Price staged what would be his last show in London just last month in conjunction with the design house 16Arlington.
- Architectural Forms: A hallmark of his work.
- Dramatic Impact: Shaping the look of rock and pop.
- Genre-Blending Design: Creating a unique, androgynous style.
- A Client List from Rock to Royalty: Including music legends and the future Queen Consort.
The industry laments the passing to a true visionary whose legacy on the visual landscape of music remains deeply ingrained.