Ruth Tarvydas and reportedly been found dead at her apartment in East Perth. The West explains that emergency services were called to the Perth fashion designer’s home early this morning, the cause of death is unknown.
Tarvydas has, in recent years been in the spotlight as her company RTI underwent liquidation just 12 months after the closing of her King Street boutique back in 2012. Despite her hardships she was known for and will now be remembered by her resilience, creativity and her designs that could steal a heartbeat.
Close friend of Tarvydas and owner of The Court Hotel, Bree Maddox told OUTinPerth, “the last time I spoke with her she was excited about her new collection and she was excited about her new project. She was happy.” The two formed a close friendship with Maddox often proudly wearing a Tarvydas gown to social events. Maddox shared,
” We bonded over our shared love of being naughty and doing things our own way! We both enjoyed breaking down the establishment”.
The news comes in shock as the designer who after five decades in the fashion industry, was due to fulfill a lifelong dream, making her Paris debut in July.
Perth model Bronx Whitehorn spoke to OUTinPerth explaining she was due to meet with Tarvydas only tomorrow. Whitehorn reflected saying,
“A lot of people misunderstood her, she’s a brilliant woman, beautifully-hearted and a lot of people didn’t get to see that. Most inspiring was that she was never afraid to be who she is.”
Fellow Perth Designer Aurelia Costarella expressed his condolences on Twitter this afternoon.
I’m devastated to hear of the death of iconic designer Ruth Tarvydas. Such a sad loss for WA.. RIP Beautiful Ruth. You will be missed X
— aurelio costarella (@ACOSTARELLA) May 16, 2014
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