Fashion photographer Roxanne Lowit, renowned for her captivating images of iconic celebrities, has died at the age of 80. Lowit’s career began after she graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, where she initially worked as a textile designer collaborating with renowned brands such as Donna Karan and Jean Muir.
Lowit’s talent as a photographer was quickly recognized when her own collection of shots caught the attention of Annie Flanders, the editor of SoHo News magazine. Flanders assigned Lowit to cover her first fashion week, laying the foundation for her future success. In the 1970s, Lowit became a prominent figure in the Studio 54 scene, forming close relationships with celebrities like Jerry Hall and earning the favor of Yves Saint Laurent, who granted her exclusive access to his runway shows and private parties.
Lowit’s work graced the pages of prestigious fashion publications, including Details, Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, and GQ. In an industry dominated by men, Lowit stood out by capturing candid behind-the-scenes moments, backstage scenes, and intimate hotel shots. Her unique perspective and ability to capture the perfect moment earned her a reputation as a keen observer.
One of Lowit’s most iconic photographs, featuring supermodels Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Linda Evangelista in a hotel bathtub, became a legendary image in the fashion world. Her work has been exhibited in renowned museums such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Luxury brands often sought her talent for their advertising campaigns, and she collaborated with esteemed names like Dior, Vivienne Westwood, and Barney’s NY. Additionally, Lowit worked with the esteemed champagne house, Veuve Clicquot.
Apart from her photography, Lowit authored several books of photographs, including a notable one on Yves Saint Laurent, which featured a preface by Pierre Bergé in 2014. Her contributions to fashion photography and her ability to capture the essence of iconic figures in the industry will always be remembered.
Roxanne Lowit, born in Manhattan in 1942, sadly died at the age of 80 from a stroke. Her unique perspective and remarkable talent behind the lens have left an indelible mark on the fashion world, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of photographers.
Useful links:
Iconic Guerlain Rouge G Turns 10
Mark Leslie Festejo
