Roxanne Lowit (February 22, 1942 – September 13, 2022) was a pioneering American fashion and celebrity photographer, renowned for her candid backstage images that offered an intimate glimpse into the world of fashion. She is often credited with creating the genre of backstage photography, capturing spontaneous moments behind the scenes of fashion shows and parties.

Roxanne Lowit, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista in a Tub, 1990

Throughout history, the world of photography has often been dominated by the male gaze, shaping the way we perceive beauty, fashion, and celebrity. However, female photographers have offered a unique and essential perspective, capturing moments with depth, empathy, and authenticity. Roxanne Lowit was one such trailblazer—an artist who redefined backstage photography and brought an intimate, feminine perspective to the glamorous world of fashion. Through her lens, she not only documented the magic behind the curtain but also celebrated the personalities, emotions, and unseen moments that made fashion come alive.

Roxanne Lowit, Kate Moss and John Galliano

Initially, Lowit pursued a career in textile design after graduating from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. Her transition to photography began when she started taking pictures of her own textile designs and the vibrant social scenes she frequented. Her unique perspective and ability to capture the essence of her subjects quickly garnered attention, leading her to become a sought-after photographer in the fashion industry.

Roxanne Lowit, Elton John playing at Central Park, 1980

Roxanne Lowit, Backstage Dior et Puis Je Fume, 1998

Throughout her career, Lowit photographed numerous iconic figures, including Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí, Kate Moss, and Yves Saint Laurent. Her work has been featured in prominent publications such as Italian Vanity Fair, French Elle, and V Magazine. She also published several books, including “Moments” (1990), “People” (2001), “Backstage Dior” (2009), and “Roxanne Lowit Photographs Yves Saint Laurent” (2014).
Lowit’s photographs have been exhibited in esteemed institutions worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Roxanne Lowit, Juxtaposing –  Thierry Mugler Show

Her work continues to be celebrated for its authenticity and the unique window it provides into the glamorous world of fashion. It remains a timeless exploration of fashion, art, and humanity. Her unique perspective continues to inspire photographers and audiences alike, offering a behind-the-scenes look into the glamour and authenticity of high society.

Roxanne Lowit, Jean-Michel Basquiat

Adding Roxanne Lowit’s work to your collection is not only a celebration of fashion history but also an investment in an artist who revolutionized the way we see behind-the-scenes culture. Her images possess an effortless blend of documentary realism and artistic elegance, making them both historically significant and visually captivating. Collecting her photography means owning a piece of the magic that unfolded in the most exclusive fashion circles—capturing the essence of creativity, spontaneity, and cultural evolution.

Roxanne Lowit, Iman

Roxanne Lowits work remains highly relevant today, reflecting an era of uninhibited style and artistic expression that continues to shape contemporary photography. A Lowit print is more than a photograph; it is a piece of fashion history, a moment of authenticity, and a tribute to the female gaze in a world traditionally dominated by male photographers.

Roxanne Lowit, Betty Lago