The British fashion world is in mourning following the announcement of the death of Scottish fashion designer Pam Hogg. Her family confirmed the news on Wednesday night, stating her final hours were peaceful and spent surrounded by loved ones.
A Creative Force in Fashion
Pam Hogg, renowned for her bold and eccentric style, was the creative genius behind iconic outfits for a constellation of music and style icons. Her clients included Rihanna, Kate Moss, Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, and Beyoncé. Born in Paisley, she honed her craft studying fine art and printed textiles at the Glasgow School of Art before furthering her education at the prestigious Royal College of Art in London.
Her journey into the fashion industry began in earnest with the launch of her debut collection, Psychadelic Jungle, in 1981. Though she never publicly confirmed her age, she is believed to have been in her 60s at the time of her passing.
Final Days and Family Tributes
In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, her family expressed they were "deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Pamela". They extended their gratitude to the staff at St Joseph’s Hospice in Hackney, east London, for the compassionate care she received in her final days.
The family's tribute celebrated her extraordinary life and influence, stating: "Pamela’s creative spirit and body of work touched the lives of many people of all ages and she leaves a magnificent legacy that will continue to inspire, bring joy and challenge us to live beyond the confines of convention." They remembered her as a glorious life, lived and loved.
An Outpouring of Grief from the Fashion and Music Worlds
The news prompted an immediate and emotional outpouring of tributes from across the creative industries. Broadcaster Fearne Cotton hailed Hogg as a "true icon," a woman who "never played by the rules and worked from the heart and soul".
Fellow designer Bella Freud simply expressed her sorrow, writing: "How sad to think of the fashion world without her shining brilliance."
Perhaps one of the most poignant farewells came from the rock band Garbage, whose Scottish singer Shirley Manson was a close friend. In a lengthy Instagram post, they wrote: "That’s you away then hen. Our dear, most distinguished doctor. Our revered Scottish fashion queen. Thank you for it all." They praised her "brilliance and the bravery" and her explosive sense of humour, describing her as a "bone fide original" and a "jewel of a human being" whose pioneering work will inspire generations of designers to come.
