Jocelyn Wildenstein died on Tuesday in Paris. She was 79 years old and was a victim of a pulmonary embolism, according to her partner, Lloyd Klein.
Wildenstein was a subject of fascination in the fashion world. The Swiss socialite’s style reflected luxury and theatricality, often featuring statement-making silhouettes and over-the-top accessories. Her influence in fashion was more personal, stemming from her unique style choices.
Throughout the years, Wildenstein favored fitted ensembles that highlighted her figure, frequently incorporating animal prints, metallic fabrics and rich textures like fur and velvet. Her wardrobe was characterized by a predilection for couture designs, including embellished gowns and tailored pieces that exuded glamour. She often accessorized her outfits with oversized jewelry, including diamond-encrusted earrings, statement necklaces and cocktail rings.
Here, WWD looks back at Jocelyn Wildenstein’s style through the years.
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Jocelyne Wildenstein At Home In New York City
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyne Wildenstein poses for a picture at home in New York City.
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John Galliano for Stallion Furs Fall 1998 Ready to Wear Fashion Show
Image Credit: Thomas Iannaccone Jocelyn Wildenstein, (R) Tina Sellem and guest attend the John Galliano for Stallion Furs Fall 1998 Fashion Show at the Metropolitan Club in New York.
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John Galliano for Stallion Furs Fall 1998 Ready to Wear Fashion Show
Image Credit: Thomas Iannaccone Jocelyn Wildenstein attends the show.
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Lloyd Klein Spring 2005 RTW
Jocelyn Wildenstein at the Spring 2005 Lloyd Klein show in New York.
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Coco Avant Chanel Screening
Image Credit: Amy Graves Jocelyn Wildenstein attends an after party for Anne Fontaine’s “Coco Avant Chanel,” at the Chanel Boutique on Robertson Boulevard.
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CHANEL Presents the L.A. Premiere of “Coco Before CHANEL” – After Party
Image Credit: Jordan Strauss Jocelyn Wildenstein attends the after party for the premiere of “Coco Before CHANEL” at the CHANEL Boutique.
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Lloyd Klein Opens LA Flagship Retail Store With A Celebrity Launch Party
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein arrives at the celebrity launch party for the opening of the Lloyd Klein flagship retail store.
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CA : Re-Opening And 25th Anniversary of Cartier Beverly Hills
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein arrives at the re-opening and 25th anniversary of Cartier Beverly Hills at the Cartier boutique.
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Olympus Fashion Week Spring 2005 – Day 4
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein is seen during the Olympus Fashion Week Spring 2005 at Bryant Park.
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Jocelyne Wildenstein Visits The Jean-Yves Klein : Chimeras Exhibition
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein and Matt Rich attend the Jean-Yves Klein: Chimeras Exhibition at Gallery Molly Krom.
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Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week: Lloyd Klein – Front Row
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein chats with a guest in the front row at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.
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Jocelyn Wildstein
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildstein attends The G & P Foundation For Cancer Research salutes The World of Entertainment and Media at The Angel Ball, honoring Clive Davis, Bonnie Fuller, Sol Kerzner and Martin Richards.
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Helen Yarmak Fashion Show
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyne Wildenstein arrives for the Helen Yarmak fashion show.
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FENDI 25th Anniversary Of The Baguette
Image Credit: Getty Images for FENDI Jocelyn Wildenstein attends the FENDI 25th Anniversary of the Baguette.
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Baccarat x Virgil Abloh Present “Crystal Clear”
Image Credit: Getty Images for Baccarat Lloyd Klein and Jocelyn Wildenstein attend as Baccarat x Virgil Abloh present ‘Crystal Clear’ at Baccarat Boutique BBar and Lounge.
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Jocelyn Wildenstein shopping on Madison Avenue, NYC
Image Credit: Getty Images Jocelyn Wildenstein shops on Madison Avenue in front of a billboard ad.
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Honey Birdette Celebrates Halloween At Bartschland At Sony Hall, NYC – Front Row/Arrivals/Atmosphere
Image Credit: Getty Images for Honey Birdette Amanda Lepore and Jocelyn Wildenstein attend as Honey Birdette celebrates Halloween at Bartschland.
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Cartier Santos 100th Anniversary
Image Credit: Steve Eichner Jocelyn Wildenstein at the Cartier Santos 100th Anniversary party at the Armory in New York City.
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Lloyd Klein Spring 2005 RTW
Image Credit: Thomas Iannaccone Jocelyn Wildenstein attends the Spring 2005 Lloyd Klein show in New York.
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FIAF benefit 2005
Image Credit: Steve Eichner Designer Lloyd Klein (L) and Jocelyn Wildenstein attend the French Institute Alliance Franc benefit at Daniel.
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Bryan Boy, Jocelyn Wildenstein, and Lloyd Klein
Bryan Boy, Jocelyn Wildenstein, and Lloyd Klein
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Coco Avant Chanel Screening
Image Credit: Amy Graves Jocelyn Wildenstein (R) attends an after party for Anne Fontaine’s “Coco Avant Chanel,” at the Chanel Boutique on Robertson Boulevard.
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Lloyd Klein, Jocelyn Wildenstein, Kim Jones
Lloyd Klein, Jocelyn Wildenstein, Kim Jones