Ferragamo matriarch dies age 96

Wanda Ferragamo, matriarch of the Ferragamo luxury Florentine shoemaker and
the company’s honorary president, has died at age 96.

The brand’s founder, Salvatore Ferragmo, died nearly 60 years ago, leaving
the company and its operations in Wanda’s hands, who ran the business
alongside raising six children. She is credited with introducing
ready-to-wear and accessories, and was instrumental to the company’s future
growth.

Last year Ferragamo reported a turnover of nearly 1.4 billion euro’s and to
this day remains privately held, although discussions of a sale surfaced
earlier this year.

A statement on the company’s website said: “it is with great sorrow and
regret Giovanna, Ferruccio, Leonardo and Massimo Ferragamo announce the
passing of their beloved mother.”

“Her precious teachings and her memory will be for all of us an example of
righteousness and great passion for life.”