Fashion Guru Wendell Rodricks passes away

Wednesday turned a black day for the fashion world, as Padmashri and internationally acclaimed fashion designer Wendell Rodricks breathed his last at his house in Goa.

Aged 59, Rodricks collapsed on the floor and died; the cause is yet unknown. Known for infusing modern aesthetics with traditional Goan influences, he is often credited for pioneering the concept of ‘resort wear’, which is not much popular in India.

He worked on the planning of first ever Lakme India Fashion Week and often showcased his collections at fashion weeks.

In 2010, he revived the weaving of the traditional Goan Kunbi Sari and showcased the design at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week.

A loved and award-winning designer Rodricks was also an author, environmentalist and gay rights activist.

A part from fashion, Rodricks was a known travel enthusiast with him and his partner Jerome Marrel travelling to many countries. He was also an author, having written books like 'Moda Goa - History and Style', his memoir 'The Green Room' and 'Poskem: Goans in the Shadows'.

Rodricks was working on his passion project Moda Goa Museum, which is dedicated to the history of Goan costumes, and had posted about it just three days ago.

After the news of his death spread, tweets and messages from V-Town and fashion world poured in.

Goan Minister Vishwajit Rane, fashion designers Rina Dhaka, Samant Chohan, FDCI chairman Sunil Sethi, and Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani were among the others who poured in their condolences.

A tribute was also paid to Rodricks at a fashion event in late evening.

May His Soul Rest in Peace!