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The Queen of Knitwear

Rykiel painted by Andy Warhol in 1986 Rykiel painted by Andy Warhol in 1986
Sonia Rykiel photographed by Andy Warhol.
Sonia Rykiel photographed by Andy Warhol.

Some icons enjoy a spark of fame, while others experience a vast acclamation. In the case of Sonia Rykiel, the acclaim is obviously affirmed. It is rather sad to look again at her best works in such occasion: the Parisian designer, Queen of Knitwear, passed away in her house this August 25th at the age of 86.

Rykiel painted by Andy Warhol in 1986.
Rykiel painted by Andy Warhol in 1986.

Rykiel, not only was the creator of a boho-chic and joie de vivre-centred style, but also represented the Parisian woman, embodying independence and expressing freedom through fashion.

She was the first designer to suggest women not to follow fashion trends and wear comfortable clothes; as a result, her brand was very appreciated by feminists at the end of the 60s.

Additionally, she introduced in mainstream fashion double-face jackets, sleeveless sweaters and knitwear paired with eveningwear.
Furthermore, Rykiel has written more than 7 novels and was the inventor of the term “démodé”.
So, for those who do not remember her, here is a gallery of her best works.

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Françoise Hardy featured at 19 years old on the cover of Elle, wearing a Rykiel jumper: that made a sensation, back in 1963, as fashion magazines would only put haute couture on their covers.
Françoise Hardy featured at 19 years old on the cover of Elle, wearing a Rykiel jumper: that made a sensation, back in 1963, as fashion magazines would only put haute couture on their covers.
Matching outfits - 1972
Matching outfits – 1972
Rykiel ensemble photographed by Oliviero Toscani - 1987
Rykiel ensemble photographed by Oliviero Toscani – 1987

 

 Ready to wear - S/S 1988
Ready to wear – S/S 1988
Ready to wear – F/W 1989
Ready to wear – F/W 1989
Ready to wear – S/S 1997
Ready to wear – S/S 1997
Runway show -  S/S 2003
Runway show – S/S 2003
Sonia Rykiel for H&M - 2009
Sonia Rykiel for H&M – 2009
Fashion show – S/S 2011
Fashion show – S/S 2011

 

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