Doris Kleiner, the former model and wife of the renowned actor Yul Brynner, has passed away at the age of 93. She drew her final breath on February 1, 2025, in Lausanne, Switzerland, marking the end of a life intertwined with glamour and the international jet-set.
Kleiner, who became known for her stunning beauty and elegance, was celebrated not only as a model but also as an influential figure within the high-fashion community. She had deep connections with many prominent personalities, including the legendary actress Audrey Hepburn. Reports of her passing were first shared by Françoise Dumas, an event organizer and close friend, who mourned her loss on Instagram by saying, "Chère Doris, je t'avais promis d'organiser tes 100 ans." Dumas, often referred to as the high priestess of elegant soirées, accompanied her tribute with cherished photos of Kleiner, stating, "RIP Doris. Souvenirs de tes 90 ans et tant d'autres souvenirs qui s'envolent avec toi."
Kleiner’s relationship with Brynner began when they met on the set of the 1960 classic film The Magnificent Seven. Their romance blossomed, leading to their marriage later the same year. Their wedding was celebrated by Hollywood's elite, including stars like Charles Bronson and Steve McQueen, who gathered to honor the couple. Together, they welcomed their daughter, Victoria Brynner, born in 1962, whose godmother was the iconic Elizabeth Taylor.
While Doris's marriage to Yul Brynner garnered her significant attention, it was her work and charisma within fashion circles and the arts community—especially during her time at Dior Maison—that solidified her status as more than just Brynner's wife. She held the position of head stylist for Dior Maison's table arts, showcasing her creativity and dedication to the luxury lifestyle. Kleiner was also involved with various decoration projects, continuing her legacy far beyond her modeling days.
The couple would later divorce in 1967, but Kleiner maintained her connections with high society. Notably, her friendship with Hepburn was particularly meaningful; the two shared many memorable moments, including time spent among the rich and famous. Jean-Gabriel Mitterrand, involved with the arts, expressed how impressed he was with Kleiner, stating, "Fascinée par le monde de la réussite et de la beauté, elle a su séduire les plus remarquables personnalités qu’elle a croisées dans sa vie."
Kleiner's life path revolved around high fashion and luxury, where she often enjoyed the company of influential figures such as Karl Lagerfeld, Pierre Bergé, and Jean Cocteau. Her contributions to the fashion scene and her status as a beloved figure among her peers earned her respect and admiration both during her life and posthumously.
Victoria Brynner, inspired by her mother’s legacy, has established herself as an influential figure within the luxury industry. This continuation of family success showcases the deep roots and connections Doris cultivated throughout her life, even as the fashion world lost another elegantly fierce personality.
Unfortunately, Doris Kleiner’s passing signifies the end of an era—one marked by refinement, beauty, and illustrious relationships. Her story serves as a reminder of the vibrant lives intertwined within the film and fashion realms, each character helping to paint the vivid picture of high society.
From her early days as a model to her sophisticated role within the luxury market, Doris Kleiner lived fully. She touched countless lives and formed everlasting friendships, leaving behind not only her legacy but also cherished memories held by her loved ones. The fashion world will surely miss the distinctive mark she left on it.