Fashion's Joseph dies aged 74

Described by Christian Lacroix as "perhaps the only one to have made natural and successful alchemy between hard-nosed business and avant garde art", the fashion designer Joseph Ettedgui has died in hospital in London aged 74. Ettedgui founded the Joseph label in 1972 and went on to open more than 20 shops in the UK and abroad. The stores stocked all the sought-after designers of the moment, including Emmanuelle Khanh, Kenzo, Alexander McQueen, Gucci, Prada and Celine. Miuccia Prada said "his shops are among the most beautiful in the world" and John Richmond described him as "the creator of modern retail". Azzedine Alaia said Ettedgui took risks "when others are giving up", and added: "If everyone were like him, fashion would be saved." Ettedgui sold the Joseph label nearly five years ago for a reported £23.8m. He remained as creative director for some time after the sale and his influence was still felt until the end. "Although he hasn't been here in person, his unique vision has remained with us and will continue to do so," a spokewoman for the label said. His younger brother Maurice said Ettedgui had been battling cancer. He told the fashion website WWD that they and their brother Franklin were the "three musketeers". He said: "We worked together all our lives. I'll remember Joseph for his kindness, his generosity, and his vision. He could see things before anyone else. He was a remarkable man." he said. Ettedgui, who died surrounded by family members, also worked with the London-based luxury leather accessories brand Connolly. A private memorial service will take place for him in London on Sunday. The designer, the son of a French-Moroccan furniture retailer, came to London from Casablanca in 1960.