Norma Kamali's Enduring Love Story: From First Marriage To Finding Forever

Norma Kamali is a name synonymous with innovation, timeless design, and a career spanning over five decades in the fashion industry. From her iconic Sleeping Bag Coat to the red one-piece bathing suit worn by Farrah Fawcett in that unforgettable 1976 poster, Kamali has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined style. But beyond the runway and the design studio, Kamali's personal life, particularly her journey through relationships and marriage, offers an equally compelling narrative of resilience, growth, and finding profound happiness at every stage of life.

For many, the question arises: Who is Norma Kamali's husband? Her romantic journey is as unique and evolving as her designs, marked by an early marriage, significant partnerships, and a beautiful engagement later in life that proves love truly knows no age.

The First Chapter: Marriage to Mohammed Houssein Kamali

Norma Kamali's first foray into matrimony began at a very young age, a common occurrence for her generation. She married Mohammed Houssein Kamali, also known as Mohammed (Eddie) Kamali, when she was just 19 years old. The year was 1967 when she tied the knot to Mohammed. However, despite the excitement that typically surrounds a wedding day, Kamali herself revealed that she was unhappy from the beginning, recalling crying on her wedding day. This early experience set a challenging tone for the start of her adult life and career.

Their relationship wasn't solely personal; it was also a business partnership that laid the foundation for her illustrious career. In 1969, Kamali opened her first boutique with her then-husband, Mohammed Houssein Kamali, in New York City. Another source indicates this boutique opened in 1967, and by 1968, when she was just 22, she and her husband had opened the Norma Kamali boutique on 53rd Street, selling "groovy fashions sourced from London." This period was pivotal for her burgeoning design talent. It was during this time that she became known for her innovative line of clothing made of real silk parachute material, which included the groundbreaking feature of being adjustable in length and fit by drawstring.

Despite their shared business ventures, the personal challenges in their marriage persisted. Norma and Mohammed's marriage ultimately ended in divorce in 1977. This separation marked a significant turning point in Kamali's life, allowing her to forge her own path both personally and professionally, truly becoming the independent force she is known as today.

Significant Relationships and Personal Growth

Following her divorce from Mohammed Kamali, Norma embarked on a period of intense personal and professional growth. While the "husband" question often focuses on formal marriage, it's important to acknowledge other significant relationships that shaped her journey.

One such relationship was with Ian Schrager, the co-founder of the legendary Studio 54. Norma Kamali was in a relationship with Ian Schrager from 1977 to 1980. While one data point states, "Kamali has been married to her soulmate, Ian Schrager, since he opened Studio 54," other biographical information consistently points to her divorce from Mohammed in 1977 and her subsequent engagement to Marty Edelman as her next formal commitment. Regardless of marital status, the description of Schrager as her "soulmate" highlights the profound connection and importance of this relationship in her life during a period of immense creativity and independence.

During these years, Kamali continued to solidify her status as a fashion icon. She designed the bathing suit worn by Whitney Houston on the back cover of her 1985 debut album, further cementing her influence in pop culture. Her career flourished, marked by continued innovation, such as the creation of the Sleeping Bag Coat, which she famously designed on a camping trip. This period showcased Kamali's ability to thrive independently, focusing on her passions and building an unparalleled legacy in fashion.

Finding Forever: Marty Edelman, Her Partner and Fiancé

After decades of dedicating herself to her craft and personal evolution, Norma Kamali found profound love again with Marty Edelman. Their story is a beautiful testament to finding companionship and commitment later in life.

Marty Edelman is widely known as Norma Kamali's partner and fiancé. Their relationship began in 2010 after they were introduced by a mutual friend, Ian Schrager – a serendipitous connection given Kamali's past relationship with him. Their bond deepened over the years, culminating in a significant milestone during a challenging global period.

The COVID-19 pandemic, while isolating for many, brought Norma and Marty even closer. As Kamali herself announced during an Instagram Live conversation with The WIE Suite founder Dee Poku, "Through COVID we really spent so much time together so he proposed on my birthday, so we’re getting married." They got engaged in 2020, when Kamali was 75 years old, a moment that resonated deeply with fans and the media, symbolizing that love and new beginnings can blossom at any age.

Their engagement at 75 was highlighted by NBC.com's TODAY show, showcasing Kamali's inspiring journey and her continued vitality. The couple has since embraced their shared life, even navigating the practicalities of moving into a new West Village apartment together. "When fashion designer Norma Kamali and her partner, Marty Edelman, moved into their new West Village apartment a year ago, they weren’t quite sure what to do with all the space," illustrating their comfortable and evolving partnership.

Looking ahead, Kamali has exciting plans for her future with Edelman. In November 2020, it was revealed that Kamali would be getting married in Abu Dhabi. This upcoming marriage marks a new, joyful chapter in her life, signifying a lifelong commitment after a journey of self-discovery and growth. As she continues to innovate in fashion, music, and even AI, her personal life with Marty Edelman stands as a beacon of enduring love and happiness.

Conclusion: A Life Lived Fully, In Love and Design

Norma Kamali's journey through relationships, from her early marriage to Mohammed Houssein Kamali to her profound partnership and upcoming marriage with Marty Edelman, reflects a life lived with courage, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Her story is not just about who her "husband" is or has been, but about the evolution of her heart and spirit.

From the challenges of a youthful marriage to the joy of finding a "soulmate" and then a devoted partner later in life, Kamali embodies the idea that personal happiness and fulfillment can be found at any age. Her life, much like her designs, is a testament to innovation, adaptability, and timeless appeal, proving that true love, like true style, is eternal.