Australian Fashion Designer Ruth Tarvydas Found Dead

In another blow to the fashion industry, Perth designer Ruth Tarvydas has been found dead.

Although the reasons behind her death are unclear, its reported an ambulance was called to her home at 8am this morning.

A Western Australia Police spokeswoman confirmed the death and said an investigation was set to follow.

"There was no criminal suggestion," the spokeswoman said. "She was seen by someone on the 14th floor of an apartment building and the police discovered her on the street (Forrest Avenue) at about 8.30am.

"A report will be prepared by the coroner."

Tarvydas had reportedly been facing financial difficulties for the last few years, with her fashion business going into administration in 2012, when she was also forced to close her Perth CBD store.

According to industry insiders, Tarvydas owed almost $1 million to the bank after her business collapsed.

A telling documentary tracking the fall of her career aired on ABC last year, with the designer telling The Sunday Times she hoped it would show her designs to a new audience.

Famed for her gorgeous eveningwear, Tarvydas counted Rihanna, Emma Watson, Amy Winehouse, Jodie Kidd, Rachael Hunter and Jennifer Hawkins as some of her high-profile celebrity clients. But it was the red backless gown worn by Rebecca Twigley to the Brownlow Medal awards in 2004 that really put her name on the map.

“I'm devastated to hear of the death of iconic designer Ruth Tarvydas,” tweeted fellow designer Aurelio Costarella. “Such a sad loss for WA.. RIP Beautiful Ruth. You will be missed X”

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Rebecca Twigley at the 2004 Brownlow Medal awards.