Fashion designer Oscar de la Renta dead at 82

American supermodel Karlie Kloss (L) poses with designer Oscar De La Renta during the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Spring 2014 in New York on Sept 11, 2013. [Photo/IC]

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If the shoe fits

The slim de la Renta cut an elegant figure himself in the New York fashion world, where he was a favorite of Vogue magazine's powerful editor, Anna Wintour, and fashion-savvy actresses like Sarah Jessica Parker.

"So sad for the loss of this legend. Oscar de la Renta, thank you for all the beauty and inspiration you shared with us," tweeted Nina Garcia, the Marie Claire creative director and judge on TV's fashion designer competition "Project Runway".

De la Renta's classic looks were popular on Hollywood's red carpets and particularly well-suited to the tastes of the first ladies at the White House, most of whom were repeat clients.

"My daughters and I have many fond memories of visits with Oscar, who designed our favorite clothes, including Jenna's wedding dress," Laura Bush, wife of former President George W. Bush, said in a statement. "We will always remember him as the man who made women look and feel beautiful."

Earlier this month, de la Renta appointed Nina Ricci's artistic director, Peter Copping, as creative director of his company, a new position that he was to assume in early November, working closely with de la Renta.

"Our industry has not always done the best job when it comes to changes in design leadership," de la Renta said in a statement on Copping's appointment. "My hope is that, in leading this selection, and actively participating in the transition, I can ensure the right design future for our company and brand."

Beyond its signature ready-to-wear women's collection, the company grew into a major luxury goods purveyor with lines of shoes, handbags, jewelry, home decor and fragrance.

De la Renta is survived by his wife, Annette.