Pam Hogg has passed away at St Joseph’s Hospice in Hackney, east London, her family confirmed today through an Instagram statement.
The pioneering Scottish fashion designer, who kept her exact age private but was believed to be in her early 60s, spent her final moments peacefully, surrounded by loved ones and close friends at her bedside.
“The Hogg Family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved Pamela,” relatives said, adding they were grateful her final hours were calm and filled with those who cherished her.
The Paisley-born designer transformed British fashion from the 1980s onwards, creating groundbreaking looks for music stars and royalty.
Pam Hogg passed away at St Joseph’s Hospice in Hackney on Wednesday
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PA
Her family expressed heartfelt appreciation for the hospice staff, saying: “We wish to thank all the staff of St Joseph’s Hospice, Hackney for the beautiful support they provided for Pamela in her final days.”
In a moving tribute, they celebrated her creative legacy, stating: “Pamela’s creative spirit and body of work touched the lives of many people of all ages and she leaves a magnificent legacy that will continue to inspire, bring joy and challenge us to live beyond the confines of convention.”
The post concluded: “Pamela will continue to live in our hearts and minds. A glorious life lived and loved.”
Ms Hogg’s career was defined by a fiercely independent artistic vision. She created unforgettable pieces for global stars including Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Kylie Minogue, Beyoncé, Björk and Shakira.
Her designs were worn by supermodels Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell, whilst Jessie J, Kelly Rowland and Claudia Schiffer were among many celebrities who embraced her signature aesthetic.
Ms Hogg’s influence extended into royal circles. Princess Diana once chose one of her dresses for a public engagement and in 2013 Princess Eugenie commissioned a bespoke black-and-white hat from the designer for Royal Ascot.
Her celebrity clientele also included icons from earlier eras such as Blondie’s Debbie Harry, Siouxsie Sioux, Grace Jones and presenter Paula Yates.
Ms Hogg’s journey began at the Glasgow School of Art, where she studied Fine Art and Printed Textiles, before completing a master’s degree at the Royal College of Art in London.
In the late 1970s she fronted the band Rubbish before becoming a fixture of Covent Garden’s legendary Blitz Club, the birthplace of the New Romantic movement.
The club’s famously strict dress code, enforced by doorman Steve Strange, inspired her early experimentation with clothing.
Her debut collection, Psychedelic Jungle, launched in 1981 and established her as one of the New Wave designers defining a new era of punk, androgyny and futuristic glamour.
Ms Hogg’s iconic catsuits became synonymous with empowerment, with Hogg telling The Guardian in 2018: “Every woman who’s ever tried on one of my catsuits has said, ‘Oh my God, I can’t wear that’. I always tell them to just try it on. When they do, they instantly feel empowered.”
Tributes flooded social media after her death was announced.
Garbage frontwoman Shirley Manson wrote an emotional farewell to her close friend: “That’s you away then hen. Our dear, most distinguished doctor. Our revered Scottish fashion queen. Thank you for it all,” praising Hogg’s “brilliance and bravery” and the “extraordinary, explosive sense of humour that perpetually burled you forth with tremendous force.”
Television presenter Fearne Cotton wrote: “Pam. Oh Pam. What a joy it was to know you. I’ll miss you Pam.”
Pam Hogg’s designs have been on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London
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Canadian musician Peaches penned: “What an incredible force of life!! I f****** love you Pam. You have really showed us all how to be strong punk and uncompromising! I cherished every moment we spent together. Always so feisty and full of power! Thank you for your big fat heart!!!!!”
Actress Gwendoline Christie stated “Forever.x”, while Scissor Sisters star Ana Matronic called her “Professor Hogg, fearless and brilliant”.
Actress Sadie Frost wrote “Love you Pam” with heart emojis and chef Andi Oliver described herself as “heartbroken” over the loss of “our darling Pam”.