Tributes pour in as pioneering Melbourne fashion icon dies

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The Melbourne fashion community is saddened by the passing of Georgina Weir, the owner of Le Louvre and a highly respected figure in the industry.

The beloved fashion boutique owner died in Melbourne on Monday aged 83, following a long illness.

Le Louvre was started in 1923 by Lillian Wightman, Weir’s mother, and rapidly grew into Melbourne’s leading store for high-end imported brands.

This small, popular shop in the city center was known as much for being a gathering place as it was for its high-end clothes and sophisticated look.

Wightman christened her tree-lined corner of Collins Street the ‘Paris End’. 

Weir’s death was confirmed on Monday by Le Louvre in a social media statement.

We are deeply saddened to share that Georgina, a cherished member of the Louvre family, passed away peacefully this morning.

Georgina was a remarkable woman who truly shaped Australian fashion. She was a pioneer known for her vibrant personality, kindness, playful wit, and positive approach to everything she did, and she will be dearly missed.

They finished by saying that Weir would long be remembered as a fashion innovator.

‘Her legacy in Le Louvre has proven to, and continues to, stand the test of time,’ they wrote.

‘Sending our love to all whose lives were touched by Georgina and Le Louvre.’ 

Weir took over the family business in the early ’70s. 

She was known for making sure everyone, not just the very rich, could access the business’s services.

She once stated that she welcomes everyone, and isn’t at all concerned with who enters her space. She doesn’t judge people based on their background or status.

While Weir was in charge, Le Louvre remained a go-to place for women seeking the latest fashion.

Many of Australia’s fashion elite took to social media to pay tribute to Weir.

As someone who’s spent years observing style and society, let me tell you, Georgina was amazing. She had a real gift for dressing women – not just any women, but the leading ladies of Australian society and brides on their big day. Bruce Keebaugh, a true icon in Melbourne hospitality, put it perfectly when he said she was a force to be reckoned with, and he was absolutely right!

She found incredible high fashion and designer clothes from all over the world, making sure her clients always had the most exceptional pieces. The parties we hosted at the Louvre were famous and unforgettable.

Chyka Keebaugh, star of The Real Housewives of Melbourne, shared that Georgina was an amazing woman and that they were all so fortunate to have known her.

Celebrity interior designer Charlotte Coote shared, ‘Georgina was a true icon and had a huge impact on my life, as well as the lives of many others. I’ll really miss our funny conversations.’

Weir didn’t have any children or siblings. After she retired, she passed on her leadership role to her goddaughter, Amelia Coote-Taylor.

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2025-11-13 02:34