Born in Cuba in 1933, Adolfo initiated his career as an apprentice to the famed Cristobal Balenciaga in Paris. He gained recognition in New York City as a milliner for esteemed establishments such as Bragaard, Bergdorf Goodman, and Emme during the early 1950s.
In 1962, he established his own millinery studio, specializing in crafting custom clothing for iconic personalities like Gloria Vanderbilt, Babe Paley, and C.Z. Guest. His illustrious clientele extended to the Duchess of Windsor, who introduced him to Betsy Bloomingdale and later to Nancy Reagan. Adolfo became renowned for dressing Nancy Reagan for both of her husband Ronald Reagan’s presidential inaugurations in 1981 and 1985, creating memorable ensembles.
In 1993, Adolfo made the decision to close his couture salon on East 57th Street to concentrate on his licensing business, Adolfo Enterprises Inc. Private funeral services are scheduled for December 9 at St. Vincent Ferrer Roman Catholic Church, followed by burial at Restland Memorial Park in East Hanover, N.J.
Adolfo leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of fashion and design, and his work continues to inspire generations.
