The fashion industry was left in shock this week following the unexpected news that German supermodel Tatjana Patitz had died at the age of 55.
Patitz was an icon of the modeling world, having made her runway debut at age 15 in 1981. She rose to fame during the mid-1980s as part of a wave of new “supermodels” who gained worldwide attention for their glamorous looks and appeared on the covers of countless fashion magazines, including Vogue and Elle.
The cause of her death is unknown at this time, but her long-time friend and photographer Marcus Schaefer said she “had been ill for some time.” He went on to say that “she passed away peacefully in her sleep surrounded by close friends and family.”
Tatjana was known for her effortless grace, as well as her love of surfing which she continued to do even after leaving modelling behind. Her easygoing style was celebrated by fans all over the world, who admired not just her physical beauty but also her inner strength and warmth.
Tributes have already begun pouring in from across the fashion community. Supermodel Naomi Campbell tweeted: “My beautiful friend Tatjana Patitz has sadly passed away today - sending my love and condolences to all those who knew & loved her ❤”
Her legacy will live on through the many iconic images of Tatjana that she created over her decades-long career, and it’s clear that she will be remembered fondly by all who knew or admired her.
.jpeg)
.jpeg)
.jpeg)