French fashion designer Lucien Pellat-Finet, known as the King of Cashmere, passed away on Feb. 26 in Trancoso, Brazil at the age of 78. His bold and luxurious sweaters, adorned with provocative symbols like skulls and marijuana leaves, redefined the perception of cashmere in the fashion world.
Pellat-Finet’s sweaters, introduced in 1994, were not only of the highest quality cashmere but also featured eye-catching designs that included crystals and vibrant colors. Despite their casual aesthetic, these sweaters came with a hefty price tag, making them a status symbol among the affluent and stylish crowd.
“He informalized cashmere,” said fashion consultant Natasha Fraser-Cavassoni. “He really made people look at cashmere in a totally different way.”
The brand’s success was not just due to its high prices but also because of the unique and edgy designs that appealed to a niche market. Fans of Pellat-Finet’s sweaters often bought them in multiples, showcasing their addiction to the luxurious yet wearable pieces.
Pellat-Finet’s personal style and love for luxury inspired his sweater line, which eventually expanded to include jackets, scarves, and accessories with the same distinctive skull motif. In 2019, he sold his brand to Thierry Gillier, marking the end of an era in the fashion industry.
After selling his brand, Pellat-Finet moved to Brazil, where he built a home in Trancoso and enjoyed his final years surrounded by friends and family. His unexpected passing during a swim in the ocean left a void in the fashion world, but his legacy as the King of Cashmere lives on through his timeless designs.
As Pellat-Finet once said, “I work for the vintage, and I wish the collection will be able to be in the street in, like, 20 years.” His vision for longevity in fashion continues to resonate with those who appreciate his unique and iconic creations.
