Sonia Rykiel

Date of Birth: May 25, 1930

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: August 25, 2016

Biography

Sonia Rykiel was a renowned French fashion designer, often hailed as the “Queen of Knits.” Born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, she began her career in fashion by designing maternity dresses and sweaters for herself while pregnant. This led to her opening her first boutique in Paris in 1968. Rykiel’s designs were distinctive for their relaxed, yet chic aesthetic, often featuring stripes, vibrant colors, and a focus on comfort. She was a pioneer of the concept of “démodé” or “out of fashion,” encouraging women to dress for themselves rather than following trends. Over the years, her brand expanded to include a wide range of clothing, accessories, and fragrances. Rykiel was also a writer, having published several books, and a cultural icon in France. She passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and empowerment in the fashion industry.

5 Interesting Facts about Sonia Rykiel

1. Sonia Rykiel was known for her distinctive red hair and often included this vibrant color in her collections.

2. She was the first designer to put seams on the outside of a garment, a move that was considered revolutionary in the fashion industry.

3. Rykiel coined the term “démodé,” which means “out of fashion,” advocating for women to create their own style.

4. In addition to her fashion career, she authored several books, including the novel “Les Lèvres Rouges” (“The Red Lips”).

5. In 2012, Sonia Rykiel publicly revealed that she had been battling Parkinson’s disease for over 15 years.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Sonia Rykiel

1. “We must be different, and different people are always difficult.”

2. “I want to make clothes that make women feel beautiful.”

3. “Fashion is about what you look like, which translates to what you would like to be like.”

4. “Dresses must be comfortable. They must feel like you are not wearing anything.”

5. “I create for women who love, who laugh, who live.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of her career, Sonia Rykiel’s net worth was estimated to be around $50 million.

Children

Sonia Rykiel had two children: Nathalie Rykiel and Jean-Philippe Rykiel. Nathalie, who was born in 1955, followed in her mother’s footsteps and became involved in the fashion industry, eventually taking over the creative direction of the Sonia Rykiel brand. Jean-Philippe, born in 1961, is a musician and composer.