Jacqueline Riu, Pioneer of Accessible Fashion, Dies at 91

October 30, 2025 – Jacqueline Riu, the founder of the eponymous fashion brand that later became Riu Paris, has died at the age of 91 on October 28th. her career spanned the notable changes in French fashion following World War II, witnessing and actively shaping the industry’s evolution.

Riu began her journey in retail by opening a franchised multi-brand store, “La Gaminerie,” on Boulevard Saint-Germain. The store quickly became known for its curated selection of brands including Max Mara, Infinitive, Theorem, Georges Rech, and Cathy Mini.Even in these early stages, Riu distinguished herself with a focus on frequent product updates, affordable pricing, and meticulous inventory control – principles that would define her future success.

In 1971, she launched her first store under her own name in Thiais, within the Belle-Spiked shopping center. Partnering with her husband, Michel Riu, she capitalized on the burgeoning shopping center concept in France, making fashion more accessible to a wider audience. Production was strategically diversified across the Maghreb, Asia, turkey, and Eastern Europe, leveraging the unique skills and expertise of each region.

“Jacqueline Riu is witness to the change of commerce, the transition from the multi-brand store to an accessible fashion brand, integrating product creation teams and diversifying its production sources around the world according to the know-how developed by each country,” stated her daughters, Sabine Chiche and Véronique Jouary, in a press release.

Her daughters joined the company in 1999, establishing a management and supervisory board structure. Under their collective leadership, the brand expanded significantly,

What impact did Jacqueline Riu have on making fashion more accessible to a wider range of women?

Jacqueline Riu: Pioneering Icon of Modern Ready-to-Wear Fashion Passes Away at 91

The Legacy of a French Fashion Revolutionary

Jacqueline Riu, a pivotal figure in the democratization of French fashion and a leading force in the rise of prêt-à-porter (ready-to-wear), has passed away at the age of 91. Her influence on the fashion industry, particularly in the latter half of the 20th century, is immeasurable. Riu wasn’t just a designer; she was a businesswoman who understood the evolving needs of women and brought accessible, stylish clothing to a wider audience. This article explores her career, innovations, and lasting impact on the world of fashion design.

From Haute Couture to Ready-to-Wear: A Paradigm Shift

Before the 1960s, fashion was largely dictated by haute couture – exclusive, custom-made garments for a wealthy clientele. Jacqueline Riu recognized a gap in the market. Women desired fashionable clothing, but lacked the time and resources for bespoke creations.

* Early Career: Riu began her career working with established couture houses, gaining invaluable experiance in design and construction.

* The Birth of Riu: In 1963, she launched her own ready-to-wear line, “jacqueline Riu,” challenging the traditional fashion hierarchy. This was a bold move, as ready-to-wear fashion was often considered a lesser form of artistic expression.

* Focus on Practicality: Her designs prioritized wearability and comfort without sacrificing style. This resonated with a generation of women entering the workforce and seeking clothing that reflected their changing lifestyles.

Defining the Riu Aesthetic: Style and Innovation

Riu’s designs were characterized by clean lines, sophisticated silhouettes, and a focus on quality fabrics. She wasn’t about fleeting trends; she created timeless pieces that women could wear season after season.

Key Design Elements

* Minimalism: A precursor to the minimalist movement, Riu’s aesthetic favored simplicity and elegance.

* Neutral Palettes: She often employed a palette of navy, black, gray, and beige, allowing for versatility and easy mixing and matching.

* Quality Materials: Riu insisted on using high-quality fabrics like wool, silk, and cashmere, ensuring both comfort and durability.

* functional Design: Pockets were a signature feature, reflecting her commitment to practicality.

Riu’s Business Acumen: Building a Fashion Empire

Jacqueline Riu wasn’t just a talented designer; she was a shrewd businesswoman. She understood the importance of branding, distribution, and marketing.

* Expansion & Boutiques: She rapidly expanded her business, opening boutiques across France and internationally.

* Licensing Agreements: Riu strategically entered into licensing agreements for accessories, fragrances, and other products, extending the reach of her brand.

* Early adoption of Mass Production: While maintaining quality, she embraced efficient production techniques to keep prices accessible. This was a key factor in her success within the fashion industry.

* Targeting the Working Woman: Her marketing campaigns specifically targeted the modern, working woman, positioning Riu as the go-to brand for stylish and practical clothing.

Influence on Contemporary Fashion

Jacqueline Riu’s impact continues to be felt today. Her pioneering work paved the way for countless other fashion brands and designers.

* Democratization of Fashion: She fundamentally changed the way women accessed fashion, making style accessible to a broader demographic.

* The Rise of French Ready-to-Wear: Riu played a crucial role in establishing France as a global leader in prêt-à-porter.

* Inspiration for Modern Designers: Contemporary designers often cite Riu as an inspiration, admiring her commitment to quality, simplicity, and functionality.

* Legacy of Timeless Style: Her designs remain relevant today, demonstrating the enduring power of classic style. The