Australian fashion icon and stylist Maggie Tabberer passed away last Friday, aged 87.
The news was confirmed by her daughters Amanda and Brooke on social media late last week.
“This morning we lost our beautiful mother and Nanna,” Amanda wrote. “She was an icon in every sense of the word and we will miss her dearly… along with the rest of Australia.
“Rest in peace Nanna. We love you to bits forever.”
Maggie Tabberer’s long career covered modelling, fashion designing, television, publishing, editorial, and public relations.
Countless tributes have since been shared across social platforms, from various industries and personalities, commemorating the national fashion icon and Australia’s first supermodel.
“We're sorry to hear about the passing of Maggie Tabberer today,” the Australian Fashion Council wrote on social media. “A true Australian icon, she made her mark as Vogue Australia's first cover girl and went on to become a beloved national fashion legend.
“Her legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.”
Radio host Amanda Keller took to Instagram, saying: “I just loved Maggie Tabberer. I first encountered her when I was a young segment producer on the midday show and she filled in as host of Ray Martin. I’ve never forgotten the grace and respect she afforded me and all those around her.
“She has greeted me with the same genuine kindness ever since. Sending condolences to the many who loved her.”
Australian fashion designer Peter Morrisey wrote: “Maggie Tabberer was the epitome of perfection. A woman who exuded poise, intelligence, style, grace, and street smarts, all wrapped up in a whisper of elegance.
“When Maggie made it clear she liked you, it felt like being seen, honoured, and elevated to new heights. Her infectious sense of humour & genuine warmth left an indelible mark on those fortunate ones.”
Former journalist and TV personality Jessica Rowe said she was heartbroken over the passing of Maggie Tabberer.
“Maggie was elegant, generous, brave & such good fun. And a trailblazer & supporter of women. I’ll never forget sitting next to her at Logies. I’m thinking so much about her beautiful girls & sending so much love.”
Media collaborator and editor Melissa Hoyer shared a tribute to Tabberer, saying she was a huge influence on her career.
“I remember her giving me a written reference waaay back in the start of my newspaper fashion editor days - a role she once held,” Hoyer wrote. “The conversations, chats, drinks or whatever I was fortunate to share with her, always had you leaving the room feeling just brilliant, enthused & exhilarated.
“I was very happy to call her a friend.”
The Australian Retailers Association also shared a tribute, calling the fashion icon an epic trailblazer.
“Our retail community has lost a wonderful trailblazer, with the sad passing today of Maggie Tabberer,” ARA wrote.
“She will be fondly remembered as one of our most stylish and committed icons of fashion and media. We send our heartfelt condolences to her friends, family and all who had the privilege of working with her through the decades.”
Maggie Tabberer is survived by her daughters, Brooke and Amanda, and her grandson Marco.