Italian-born princess and Fiat heiress Ira von Fürstenberg, known for her jet-setting lifestyle and glamorous presence in the worlds of fashion and film, passed away at the age of 83 in her home in Rome. Her son, Hubertus von Hohenlohe, confirmed that she died after a domestic accident that resulted in broken ribs and perforated lungs.
Ms. von Fürstenberg, who shared a surname with fashion designer Diane von Fürstenberg, was a true embodiment of old-world European aristocracy blended with midcentury film and fashion sophistication. She lived a life of luxury, with homes in Rome, London, Paris, Madrid, and Lake Geneva, and even had solid gold bath taps in her Paris residence.
Despite her privileged upbringing and seemingly endless wealth, Ms. von Fürstenberg pursued a variety of careers, from modeling for top photographers to acting in films alongside Hollywood stars. She also worked as an executive for Valentino and later became an artist, creating decorative objects from bronze, rock crystal, and semiprecious stones.
Fame found Ms. von Fürstenberg early in life when she made headlines at 15 for marrying the Spanish prince Alfonso Hohenlohe-Langenburg. Their union was celebrated with lavish parties and mingling among the elite of the fashion and art worlds. However, the marriage eventually faltered, leading to a tumultuous divorce and subsequent relationships with other high-profile figures.
Despite the ups and downs in her personal life, Ms. von Fürstenberg remained unapologetically herself, always presenting herself in a manner befitting her royal status. Her legacy as a princess, model, actress, and artist will be remembered by those who knew her as a true icon of style and sophistication.
