Parisian-born, Lafont received a graphic arts degree in England and had a professional career that included textiles, home furnishings and table wear, as well as the eyewear business, which she was introduced to in the 1970’s when she married Philippe Lafont, the grandson of the founder of the Lafont boutiques in Paris. In 2001, she devoted herself exclusively to the eyewear industry.
Laurence Lafont |
In 1996, her son Thomas joined her in the creation of the Lafont collections; he will now be in charge of the design studio.
“She was iconic to us,” said Ray Khalil, president of Lafont. “Her personal touch meant a lot to us. She has had a team of designers for the last six years, including her son, that have been taking over the reigns. She was passing the baton to her son. Her family is mourning their personal loss, as is the whole company, but we are carrying on determined and united.”
The family is accepting condolences at [email protected]. ■