Influential fashion journalist and former editor-at-large of US Vogue, Andre Leon Talley, has died at the age of 73.
The writer passed away in hospital in New York, according to TMZ. A source told the publication that Talley had been battling an unspecified illness.
The journalist was a key figure in creating Vogue's vision and direction during the 1980s and 1990s as he worked his way up the seniority ladder to eventually become the news director - a role he held from 1983 to 1987.
In 1988 he became the company's creative director and stayed in the position for around seven years.
Elsewhere during his career - which spanned six decades - he worked at Women’s Wear Daily, W and the New York Times.
He was known as a trailblazer in the fashion industry and worked tirelessly to promote more diversity on the runway and among high fashion's creative ranks.
His consulting work saw become a stylist for the Obamas for a brief spell during Barack's presidency.
On the small screen, Talley served as a judge on America's Next Top Model and also had a cameo appearance on Sex and the City.
Following the shock news of his passing, fans and famous faces took to social media to share messages of condolence.
One fan on Twitter uploaded a clip of the journalist gushing over Rihanna's fashion as he called her inspiring. The user wrote: "One of my favorite moments from André Leon Talley with Rihanna, RIP to a legend."
Another fan also chose to share a clip of Talley with the Umbrella singer and commented: "RIP fashion journalist, André Leon Talley. Here he is w/ Rihanna at one of her Savage X Fenty shows.
"He once called her the “Empress of Beauty”, and commended her on her ability to “create the new norm for fashion presentations”. We will miss him!"
A third fan shared an old snap of Talley and penned: "Rest in peace andré leon talley your impact on the fashion industry will continue to live on forever."
And a fourth said: "The ICONIC and LEGENDARY André Leon Talley has passed away. Rest in Paradise."
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