While there were many fashion highs in 2009, unfortunately, there were a few lows as well.

This year witnessed the loss of a music and fashion icon, a trailblazing model, a nascent clothing label, and more.

Let’s take a look back in remembrance and reverence.

Michael Jackson:

In June, fans were shocked by the passing of music icon Michael Jackson.  On top of scoring dozens of number one hits in his lifetime, MJ also initiated several trends, making red leather jackets, glitter gloves, and fedoras de riguer for fashionable followers young and old. His memory lives on in the music and movements he initiated. We will continue to reference them for years to come.

Naomi Sims

In August we lost Naomi Sims, the model who designer Halston said, “…was the first. She was the great ambassador for all black people. She broke down all the social barriers.” The Philadelphia native covered Cosmopolitan and Life Magazines and was the first black woman to land the cover of Ladies Home Journal in 1968. The pioneering glamazon paved the way for contemporary brown skinned models like Arlenis, Chanel, Sessilee, and Jourdan. She will be missed.

Kanye’s Pastelle Clothing Line

Before we could even get excited about Kanye’s ‘Pastelle’ clothing line, MTV News reported that the collection would, “never, ever, ever come out.” Too bad, as it seems our Fashionable Man of 2009 has an eye for cut and design, and already scored quite well with his Nike Air Yeezy’s and Louis Vuitton sneaks. Better luck next year, Kanye, we’re all watching and waiting for your next creative move.  We’re sure it’ll be fabulous.

Vibe Magazine

In June, Daily Finance announced the shuttering of Vibe Magazine. The Hip Hop monthly, known for its intelligent, spot on writing, and finger-on-the-pulse reporting closed its downtown offices and bid adieu to its talented staff. Though the print magazine recently relaunched in smaller form, we’ll still miss the Vibe of the olden days, where ed notes by Danyel Smith and eye catching fashion spreads by Memsor Kamaraké delighted and awed.

What will you miss the most?

*Honorable Mentions: Pour out a little liquor as well for J.Lo’s Sweetface and Andre 3000′s Benjamin Bixby Line.