Giorgio Armani, Iconic Italian Fashion Designer, Passes Away At 91

Giorgio Armani, Iconic Italian Fashion Designer, Passes Away at 91

In a heartfelt message from Armani’s family and employees, the sentiment was clear: “In this company, we have always felt like part of a family. Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication. But it is precisely in his spirit that we, the employees and the family members who have always worked alongside Mr. Armani, commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love.”

The passing of Armani marks the end of an era, especially as he had recently missed significant events for his fashion house. Most notably, he did not attend the menswear show at Milan Fashion Week in June, an absence that was particularly striking given that it was the first time he had missed the event in half a century. Reports indicated that he was following the show via live stream as he recuperated from an undisclosed health issue.

Born on July 11, 1934, in Piacenza, Italy, Giorgio Armani’s journey into the fashion world was not a straightforward one. Initially pursuing a medical degree, he shifted paths after serving in the military and took a job as a window dresser at a Milan department store. This role eventually led him to work as a buyer, and by the mid-1960s, he had transitioned to design under the mentorship of notable designer Nino Cerruti.

In 1975, Armani took a significant leap by launching his own label alongside his business and romantic partner, Sergio Galeotti. The designer quickly garnered acclaim for his innovative approach to menswear, particularly his reimagining of suits. By deconstructing traditional designs and utilizing softer materials, he created looser fits that became his signature style—a look that resonated deeply with both business professionals and fashion enthusiasts alike.

By the 1980s, Armani had solidified his status as a powerhouse in American fashion. His designs were prominently featured in pop culture, notably in the film “American Gigolo,” where Richard Gere’s character donned an Armani wardrobe that propelled the brand into the American consciousness. The influence of Armani’s aesthetic was further cemented by popular television shows like “Miami Vice,” which showcased the now-iconic style of a T-shirt worn beneath a relaxed Armani suit jacket.

Armani’s appeal transcended the corporate world and extended to Hollywood, where he dressed numerous A-list celebrities. Julia Roberts famously wore a menswear-inspired suit to the Golden Globes in 1990, describing her choice as “the epitome of being dressed up.” Other stars, including Rihanna, Cate Blanchett, and Anne Hathaway, have also chosen Armani for major red-carpet events, showcasing the designer’s ability to blend elegance with contemporary flair.

Among the designer’s most notable collaborations was with Lady Gaga during the 2010 Grammy Awards, where he crafted a series of striking looks for the pop icon. Gaga expressed her admiration for Armani’s work, stating, “The series of pieces Mr. Armani created for me are truly iconic; they represent not only beautiful fashion, but my spirit and essence as an artist. Mr. Armani is a fashion legend, and tonight would not have been the same without his touch.”

Cate Blanchett, who attended the 40th anniversary celebration of the Armani brand in 2015, praised the designer for his unique aesthetic that balances masculinity and femininity. Glenn Close shared her personal connection to the brand, recalling her first Armani blazer purchased in the mid-1980s, which remains a cherished piece in her wardrobe.

Armani’s influence extended beyond celebrity wardrobes; he also played a role in some of the most significant moments in his clients’ lives. Stars like Katie Holmes and Princess Charlene of Monaco chose Armani for their wedding attire, highlighting his ability to create timeless designs that resonate with tradition and modernity. Armani specifically aimed to craft a “completely modern look” for Charlene’s wedding gown, showcasing his commitment to innovation.

Reflecting on his career, Armani once stated, “I have never been interested in being trendy for the sake of it.” His dedication to a distinct vision helped him navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion. He believed in creating clothes that were relevant to everyday life, arguing that fashion should be meaningful and reflective of the world we inhabit. “If you make clothes that are not part of the world we live in, they will be meaningless,” he said, emphasizing the importance of practicality in his designs.

Armani’s success was not merely a product of creativity; he attributed much of it to discipline. In a conversation with How to Spend It, he revealed that “Eighty percent of what I do is discipline. The rest is creativity.” This commitment to both the artistic and operational aspects of his business allowed him to maintain a lasting presence in the industry.

However, such dedication came at a personal cost. Armani acknowledged the sacrifices he made along the way, stating, “But I understood, too, that success like this requires total commitment.” While he sometimes regretted giving up personal relationships for the sake of his work, he ultimately felt fulfilled by the path he chose. “In reality, though, I have no regrets. I did what I wanted,” he reflected.

As the fashion world mourns the loss of Giorgio Armani, his legacy endures through the countless lives he touched and the timeless designs he created. The impact of his work will continue to resonate within the industry, with future generations of designers drawing inspiration from his innovative spirit and commitment to excellence. Armani’s contributions to fashion have not only changed the industry but have also redefined the way people perceive and experience style. His passing marks a significant moment in fashion history, one that will be felt for years to come.