Terry de Havilland "the rock n roll cobbler" dies at 81

Legendary footwear Terry de Havilland, known as the "rock n roll cobbler", has died at the age of 81.

de Havilland made a major contribution to footwear design in his lifetime and was famed for his skyscraper high heels and wedges that came in an array of colours often complete with embellishments.

He rejected the practical and discreet footwear that pre-dated his arrival on the scene in the 1960s and embraced all-out glamour, an attitude which was to attract many big names from the world of music and entertainment to his designs.

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Fans of his work during the 1970s when he was at his height included Marianne Faithfull, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie and Bianca Jagger, and he designed the shoes for the Rocky Horror Show in 1975.

His company went through various guises in the 80s and 90s but continued to work until recent times, winning Accessories Designer of the Year at the British Fashion Awards and in 2010. However he had been obliged to watch his brand from the sidelines in recent years after losing the rights to his name after a deal collapsed. Modern era fans of his designs include supermodel Kate Moss and Lady Gaga. 

His passing was announced on his official Instagram page and fellow fashion figures took to the platform to pay tribute. Designer Pam Hogg said she had been left heart-broken by the news: "It was such a privilege to know him and be his friend for over 30yrs. A giant of an individual with a smile and laugh to equal his generous heart."