Brisbane fashion designer Daniel Lightfoot has been remembered as a loving father and a man of “incredible talent” after his sudden death on Christmas Day at the age of 58.
Lightfoot gained acclaim after his designs were worn by Angelina Nasso, Miss World Australia in 1985.
Within 12 months he had achieved the status of best designer in Queensland.
He has won 27 RAQ Fashion Design Awards and 2 Australian Fashion Awards, and his designs have been adopted by retail giant David Jones.
His ex-wife of eight years, Susie Lightfoot, issued a moving tribute to Danielle after his death.
“He is very much loved by his beautiful daughter Paris (the light of his life) and his close family Alison, Kenny, Elizabeth, Ben and Amy,” she wrote.
“Daniel has touched the lives of many through his incredible talent, craftsmanship and vision of beauty.
“He transformed simple fabrics into something truly magical, making the women he dressed shine like diamonds.”
She said his death will be felt among her colleagues, friends and clients in the Australian fashion industry, who remain close after the separation.
“For his wicked sense of humor and keen wit, his appreciation for French champaign, his diamonds and sparkle, his yellow roses, his love of happy parties, his expensive cars, and his dancing as everyone watched. , he will always be fondly remembered (because they were!),” said Mr. Lightfoot.
“You are now safe and can dress up all these beautiful angels in your creations and be the man you want to be again in heaven.”
Daughter Paris also delivered a message of love for her father.
“Late last night, heaven won the most fashionable and hilarious angel,” she wrote.
“I love you dad forever and I will always be your Princess P.”
Liza Minnelli and former Governor-General Quentin Bryce have been some of the high-profile clients throughout his career and have brought him many accolades.
Before his death, Lightfoot remained active on the scene, mentoring aspiring designers at Queensland University of Technology’s Fashion School.