Fashion designer Pierre Cardin has died aged 98. France's Fine Arts Academy confirmed his death in a post on social media.
Cardin was among the first designers to build a business around his name. His signature avant-garde designs were worn by celebrities of his time - including Elizabeth Taylor, Jeanne Moreau, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and Barbra Streisand.
"The perpetual secretary Laurent Petitgirard and the members of the Academy of Fine Arts are deeply saddened to announce the death of their colleague Pierre Cardin," the academy said.
Cardin broke fashion traditions with futuristic designs and landmark unisex collections. He created trends unheard of before his - making his mark and cementing his name.
He was born in San Biagio di Callalta in northeast Italy 20 miles from Venice. He got into fashion after his family moved to Paris. He became an apprentice of Christian Dior in 1946 when he opened his couture house in Paris.
In 1950, Cardin founded his own brand - initially concentrating on theater costumes before moving into haute couture in 1953.
Cardin is credited with several innovations - including his breakout bubble dress and his ready-to-wear collection.
Cardin displayed a knack for business early.
He was among the first designers to open stores in Russia, China and Japan. Cardin's brand expanded into products such as perfume, cigarettes, watches and even kitchenware.
Cardin has been recognized for his achievements in several countries - including his home country of Italy and France. In 1987, Italy gave Cardin the title of Grand Officer of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic. In 1991, he was made an Officer of the Legion of Honor by the government of France. During the same year, he was named as an official goodwill ambassador by UNESCO.
