We would like to take a moment to offer our condolences for the loss of Steven Robinson, who died suddenly and tragically of a heart attack. As we all know, fashion is an industry and not just an art and to find someone you can trust leading the way is quite the task. Jim Shi from FashionWeekDaily.com has the full report…. You can also see Suzy Menkes tribute at IHT.com In Memory of Steven Robinson John Galliano mourns Dior right-hand man (PARIS) Steven Robinson, head of Christian Dior and John Galliano’s studios, died Sunday from an apparent sudden heart attack. His body was discovered at his apartment Wednesday. He was 38. “Steven has been my rock, my dearest friend, and not someone that was meant to ever leave me,” said Galliano, who returned to Paris early from holiday. “He was my family, unswerving in his loyalty and dedication ever since he came to me when he was only seventeen. Working with him has been the greatest adventure and privilege of my career. No one can, or will, ever replace him—and though he shied away from the spotlight and the glory, he was the glue that kept all the magic together as he organized, managed, and inspired the family.” Sidney Toledano, Dior’s chief executive officer, added with sadness, “He will be sorely missed and his spirit and enthusiasm will stay forever in our memory.” Robinson served as Galliano’s right hand, confidant, and chief collaborator for nearly 20 years. The two first met in 1988—the same year Galliano won Designer of the Year for his Blanche Dubois collection—when, after graduating from the Epsom School of Art and Design with a degree in fashion, the British native started his career sewing buttons when he came to work for Galliano on a student placement. The House of Dior characterized Robinson as one of the greatest unsung talents of the modern fashion world, whose creativity knew no bounds. “He was full of energy, ideas, his bouncy personality was contagious and he touched many people with his kindness,” the statement read. “He believed nothing was impossible in the quest for beauty and perfection.” “Anyone who met him couldn’t help but be electrified by his energy and creativity,” Galliano continued. “He inspired and lit up the studio on a daily basis and we traveled from London to Paris to Givenchy and to Dior to beyond our wildest dreams. Though my dear friend went too soon I will never forget this irreplaceable soul, and will continue the journey we started together and hope to carry his light with us always.” Funeral services are likely to take place immediately after the Easter holiday. Robinson is survived by his parents and a younger brother. JIM SHI –Joanne Molina for Second City Style
