Late last night, news began to break on social media that the fashion world had lost another one of its greatest. Today, Vogue, along with other major publications, confirmed the news that André Leon Talley had passed away at 73 of a heart attack. The news came as a shock to many, and tributes from friends and collegues began to pour in as the news spread. From Marc Jacbos and Diane von Furstenberg to the thousands of strangers that he inspired, we along with world, mourn the loss of one of the greats.
Not only did Tally have an incredible career in fashion, with time at Interview, Women’s Wear Daily, The New York Times, and of course Vogue, but Tally had a profound impact on many who never thought their dreams were possible, until Tally did it first. He was the first Black man to hold his position at Vogue, the publication reported in its lengthy obituary, and at times, he was the only person of color in the front row at a fashion show. He paved the way the way for so many, quick to point out the lack of diversity in the industry while unapologetically being himself.
Talley was know by so many as fashion’s biggest champion. He will be remembered not only for his work and boundary-breaking contributions to the industry as a whole, but for his larger-than-life personality and unique sense of style. As a child, he believed there was more to life, and it certainly seems that he found it. He will be greatly missed by so many.
André Leon Talley
1948-2022
