Andre Leon Talley, a beloved figure in the fashion world has reportedly died at age 73, according to TMZ. The former creative director for Vogue, judge on America’s Next Top Model, and singular voice in fashion was a true force to be reckoned with in the industry, pushing boundaries and always bringing a certain joie de vivre to his work.
Here we break down five things to know about the so-called “godfather” of fashion who inspired many and paved the way for people of color in the fashion industry. He Grew Up in Jim Crow South Andre was born on October 16, 1948 in Washington, D.C.
and was raised by his grandmother, Binnie Francis Davis, who worked as a cleaning lady at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.
In his memoir, The Chiffon Trenches, Andre detailed his difficulties growing up within that context, considering his large size (he was 6’6″) as a black man and his penchant for luxury fashion.
Read more on hollywoodlife.com