We are truly shocked and saddened today to hear of the untimely passing of British designer Richard Nicoll. Speaking in a statement, his family describe him as “a true gentleman, a wonderful friend and a much–loved son”, calling him “one of the quiet stars of fashion” – words that we at Dazed wholeheartedly agree with. 

Praised for his draping and tailoring techniques, and his modernist, minimal designs, Nicoll once said that his definition of beauty was “happiness”. This emphasis was evident throughout his career, not least in his final outing, SS15 – a Tinker Bell-inspired collection featuring dresses in pastel hues, faded paisley, gingham and hologram. 

Here our senior fashion editor Emma Wyman, who knew the designer personally, pays tribute to his talent, kindness and sense of fun: 

“I first moved to London nine years ago to finish my BA degree at Central Saint Martins, and to follow in the footsteps of designers such as Richard Nicoll. I can’t remember how or where I first met Richard, but it was more than likely the late George & Dragon pub where I would occasionally ‘DJ’, and which I’d frequent almost every night. I will never forget the awe, excitement and inspiration I felt when I first met him.

“Completely stunned by his kindness and how fun he was, we became friends. Richard, along with his colleagues, Jonathan Saunders, Marios Schwab, Louise Goldin, Louise Gray, Gareth Pugh, defined an integral moment in British fashion. I am lucky to have known him. I loved and was very inspired by his minimal yet incredibly characterful designs. Richard was truly handsome inside and out. Richard, I will miss being out ‘on the raz’ with you.”

In the gallery above, we reflect on some of our backstage favourite moments from throughout the designer’s career.