REST IN PEACE PATRICK ASSARAF: APRIL 27, 1958- MARCH 14, 2025

MR magazine is saddened to report the passing of visionary menswear designer Patrick Assaraf, who passed away on Friday March 14. He was widely known to be warm, caring, energetic, and extremely talented, a man who embraced life to the fullest, mentored many aspiring protégés, and showed tremendous love for his family and friends.

Patrick’s dedication to his craft is legendary; his collections were defined by simplicity, modernity, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. From the start of his career, he demonstrated an innate passion for design, creating men’s fashion that combined sophistication and ease.

His design philosophy was deeply rooted in his trips to Pitti Uomo, the menswear trade show in Florence that he attended for more than 35 years. This exposure to Italian craftsmanship profoundly influenced his approach, inspiring him to create clothing that embodied timeless luxury and impeccable tailoring. His devotion to refined, understated items led to collections of effortlessly elegant essentials, must-haves for modern men. Under his leadership, the PATRICK ASSARAF brand expanded far beyond Canada, reaching more than 180 prestigious stores across North America. His collections literally changed the way men dress and inspired other designers to focus on “Quiet Luxury.” But no one has ever done it quite like Patrick Assaraf.

Beyond creating beautiful clothes, Patrick was also passionate about the equestrian sport of dressage, an art that requires patience, precision, and a bond of trust between horse and rider. More than a sport, this art form for Patrick reflected his lifelong pursuit of harmony, discipline and beauty.

Patrick is survived by his beloved wife Elise, his adoring children Ely and Hinda (married to Liran), his brother Arie, and his precious young grandson Adam, who brought so much joy to his life.

The Assaraf family has emphasized Patrick’s love for the brand he created and nurtured, saying that, with Patrick’s incredibly creative team, they will honor his wishes and continue his legacy. “Patrick’s pursuit of perfection and unwavering vision will live on through our work, our craft, and our shared dedication to excellence.”

Here, a few thoughts from Patrick’s friends:

“My sincere condolences to the Assaraf family. Patrick was a great friend, a brilliant designer and businessman. I worked with him since 1986, and he always reminded me that I gave him his first order. He was a true visionary and we at Harry Rosen will miss him so much.”
Larry Rosen, Harry Rosen Stores

“My heart is broken, we have lost one of the good guys. Patrick and I go back 40 plus years. We grew up in the menswear business together and became more than friends. I respected him so very much. He was hard-working, loved his family, and became a student of retail. I will miss our talks, our debates, and his storyboard presentations to me. Patrick leaves me with everlasting memories. May his memory be a blessing to his family and friends.”
Jeff Farbstein, former Harry Rosen exec

“It’s hard to believe he is gone, as he reminded me often that he was just getting started. I’m so grateful for his friendship and his mentorship since the day I joined the menswear business. He was never too busy to give advice and always had perspective and vision to share. I was so proud to be building such an amazing partnership, these past five years especially. I know the entire Harry Rosen family is heartbroken right now. His legacy will live on through so many. Sincerest condolences to the entire Assaraf family: may Patrick’s memory forever be a blessing.”
Ian Rosen, Harry Rosen Stores

“Patrick was a creative and talented designer who brought his passion for fine fabrics and timeless designs to his collections. We have wonderful memories of hosting Patrick in Nashville as Levy’s presented his collection on the runways for Nashville Fashion Week. He graciously gave endless interviews, and we loved introducing him to our clients who purchased his collections season after season. Jeff Colt and Vito Ponzo work tirelessly to present us with the pieces that best represent Patrick’s vision and ensure his legacy. He will be so greatly missed.”
Ellen and David Levy, Levy’s Nashville

“I am heartbroken. I met Patrick over 25 years ago when I first began buying for Over The Rainbow. Patrick was always very good to me. The last time I was in his office there was no talk about business which was unusual, all he wanted to talk about was his grandson. Patrick gushed of him and told me how much he loved spoiling him. The industry has lost a giant. I will miss him very much.
Genia Albi, Over The Rainbow, Toronto

“I truly admired Patrick and his enthusiasm for life! He adored beautiful clothes and good food and spending time with people who shared his passions. A true creative, he had a story behind every piece he designed. He had the soul of an artist. Although a somewhat private person, he opened up once you engaged him and loved to share his deep passion for menswear. I feel fortunate to have shared some of this passion with Patrick over the years.”
Mario Bisio, Mario’s Seattle/Portland

“Patrick’s legacy in the industry speaks for itself, as do the personal values he lived by. It is a great honor to have traded with him.”
Alex Gushner, Boyd’s Philadelphia

“I’ve known Patrick during most of my 30-year career. We first met working on a label called Mondo di Marco, for which he was the Canadian licensee. Through the years, we ran into each other at trade shows, events and in stores. He always had so much passion and energy and a smile that lit up the room. His design talent, especially with his new Patrick Assaraf collection, was exceptional, leading to beautiful pieces that were quite special for the price. I’m proud to own a few pieces.
“Our industry lost a really good guy, and it won’t be the same without him. I will miss our conversations and his passion, vision and amazing energy.”
Arnold Brant Silverstone, designer, Douglas Hayward

“I’m really saddened to hear this news. I met Patrick Assaraf only a handful of times, but his vibrant joy and energy were so infectious. Even in that brief time, I could see the extent to which he spread happiness to everyone and joy into the beautiful clothes he crafted. He will be dearly missed for his lively spirit and amazing work.”
Johnell Garmany, GARMANY, Red Bank NJ