A fashion designer, who was discovered by Pierre Cardin, has died after drowning in the sea following a family barbecue.
Lucien Paul Pierre Pella-Finet was known as the King of Cashmere.
He left the family meal to take a swim near his home on Monday (26 Feb).
Two teens out surfing reported seeing the 78-year-old go under the water.
They tried to save him, but their efforts were in vain.
His body was found near a popular surfing spot and was taken away for an autopsy.
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The tragedy took place off Itaquera Beach in the bohemian beach town of Trancoso, Brazil.
Pella-Finet had been living in the area for about 30 years.
He published his memoir ‘Super F*cking Lucky: Lucien Pellat-Finet: King of Cashmere and (Anti) Fashion’ in March 2019.
Its release was timed to celebrate the 25th anniversary of his eponymous fashion label.
Pella-Finet grew up on the French Riviera.
He began working as a model after being discovered by the legendary Italian-French fashion designer Pierre Cardin.
Like Cardin, he became a stylist himself.
He had stores in New York City, Paris, and other big cities.
He owned a luxury holiday rental property in Trancoso.
A post on his brand’s Instagram page reads: “It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of our beloved founder Lucien Pella-Finet.
“We mourn a visionary fashion designer, fearless trailblazer, and dear friend to so many in this industry.
“In his own words, we all feel ‘super f*cking lucky’ to have known him.
“We are more than ever committed to perpetuating its legacy of boldness and creativity.”
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