Louise Wilson, the fashion professor credited with launching the careers of some of the world's best designers, has died, aged 52.
She is reported to have died in her sleep during a visit to her sister in Scotland.
In a statement, Jeremy Till, head of CSM, said: 'Her commitment to her students and passion for creative excellence are legendary. Her deep understanding of fashion and her drive for funding for bursaries, facilities and opportunities are part of what made her such an extraordinary educator.'
'Louise's legacy will live on at CSM through her former students and current teaching colleagues who were so close to her.
'Central Saint Martins is grateful to have been able to enjoy the fruits of Louise's great talent for educating for the last twenty years and will support her staff and students as they go forward from here.'
Known for her forthright candour, Wilson - who received an OBE in 2008 - had been the director of the prestigious MA Fashion course at Central Saint Martins since 1992, save for two years spent as design director of in the mid-90s.
Her former students include such luminaries as Alexander McQueen, Phoebe Philo, Christoper Bailey, and .
