Naomi Campbell Finally Speaks out About the Death of Azzedine Alaia

On Sunday, news of Azzedine Alaia‘s passing rocked the celebrity world, with tributes from the likes of Mariah Carey and Lady Gaga pouring in.

One of the fashion industry’s most beloved creative minds, the Tunisian designer’s legacy as both an unparalleled couturier and an independent force willing to buck the fashion system is without question.

We’re not here to talk about his legacy though, we’re here to talk about the his father-daughter relationship with supermodel Naomi Campbell. The British beauty took to Instagram to finally speak about the death of her “Papa,” and it’s as emotional as you’d expect.

Dear papa , I was blessed in my life to meet you and for your embrace at 16 ,so many wonderful memories of you through out our journey together . I got to experience what it was like to be around a Genius !!! You taught me and opened my eyes to so many things in life , and how to strive for perfection , as you were PERFECTION and UNIQUE and will always be . No one understood the body of a woman more than you . That made us feel good about ourselves inside out . You did all the fatherly duties my unknown father should have . You ignited happiness to all whom were around you , from dancing in the kitchen to playing practical jokes . You protected me and loved me unconditionally . Im eternally , grateful to you the day you picked up the phone and called my mother to tell her you were taking me in . Papa until we meet again on the other side , I know you will continue to guide me , and always be in my heart . May you Rest In Peace I love you papa Ta Fille Naomi ???. Thank you for all the condolences I have received ??

A post shared by Naomi Campbell (@iamnaomicampbell) on Nov 20, 2017 at 11:15am PST

It’s quite fitting then that when Alaia showed his first couture collection in Paris in six years, it was Campbell who both opened and closed the show. He was her surrogate father, and she was the last model to wear his creations on the runway during his lifetime.

WE SAID THIS: May he rest in peace.