Raymond Massaro, the renowned shoemaker behind Chanel and other prestigious couture houses, has passed away at the age of 90. Massaro, who was the head of the third generation of the Massaro workshop, leaves behind a legacy of exceptional craftsmanship and innovation.
Just weeks after the fashion world mourned the loss of Karl Lagerfeld, another influential figure connected to Chanel has left us. Raymond Massaro, a key collaborator with the brand, has passed away, leaving behind a rich history of creating stunning footwear. Massaro’s talent and passion for shoemaking were evident in his work, and he was instrumental in shaping the distinctive aesthetic of Chanel.
One of Massaro’s most iconic designs was the beige goatskin and black satin slingback sandal with an elastic heel, which he created for Gabrielle Chanel in 1957. This design was revolutionary at the time, as fashion trends leaned towards towering stiletto heels. The collaboration between Massaro and Chanel continued for many years under the artistic direction of Karl Lagerfeld, solidifying the strong bond between the two.
In 2007, Chanel further deepened its relationship with Massaro by acquiring the company as part of its subsidiary, Paraffection. This subsidiary is dedicated to preserving and promoting the artisanal crafts that are integral to the world of Haute Couture. Massaro’s tradition of excellence and commitment to quality has been carried forward by Chanel, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
The Massaro workshop, founded in 1894, quickly established itself as a pinnacle of custom-made shoe craftsmanship. Renowned figures such as Romy Schneider, Elizabeth Taylor, and Elsa Schiaparelli have donned their creations. Each piece takes an average of thirty hours to create for women and fifty hours for men, highlighting the attention to detail and dedication to perfection that Massaro emphasized. The company also has a department dedicated to high-end orthopedic footwear, demonstrating their commitment to both style and comfort.
Last year, Chanel showcased the artistry of the Massaro workshop through a special episode of their 3.55 podcast. This episode featured Jean-Étienne Prach, the artistic director of Chanel, providing an insight into the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each pair of Massaro shoes. The podcast highlighted the importance of preserving these artisanal skills.
In addition to his work with Chanel, Raymond Massaro was also recognized for his contributions to the shoemaking industry as a whole. He held positions such as President of the National Syndicate of Shoemakers and Vice President of the National Leather Council, solidifying his status as a respected and influential figure in the field.
Raymond Massaro’s passing is a great loss to the fashion world, but his legacy will continue to inspire and influence shoemakers and fashion enthusiasts alike. His exceptional talent, dedication to craftsmanship, and innovative designs will forever be remembered. We pay tribute to his remarkable career and the indelible mark he left on the world of couture shoe design.
Useful links:
– [Massaro Paris](https://www.massaro.fr/)
– [Chanel](https://www.chanel.com/)
