Mary McFadden, the visionary fashion designer who revolutionized the industry with her pleated goddess gowns and the creation of her patented fabric, Marii, has passed away at the age of 85. McFadden’s fashion journey began in the 1960s during her marriage to a De Beers executive, which took her to South Africa. Dissatisfied with local fashion, she designed her own luxurious, drapey gowns from rich silks.
Upon her return to New York, McFadden’s unique creations caught the eye of fashion writers at Vogue, where she worked. This led to the launch of her fashion line, defined by pleated, columnar gowns that draped like liquid. Her synthetic Marii fabric became a hallmark of her brand, loved by clients for its resilience and travel-friendly qualities.
McFadden’s influence extended beyond fashion. Her works were displayed as art in major institutions like the National Museum of Women in the Arts. While her professional success was legendary, her personal life garnered attention as well, with McFadden claiming to have been married 11 times.
Mary McFadden passed away at her Southampton home after a 70-year career that left an indelible mark on fashion and culture.