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Italian fashion, political and sports figures among thousands bidding farewell to Giorgio Armani

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, September 7th 2025 at 18:16 GMT by WMUR
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Giorgio Armani’s death marks the end of an era in Milan fashion

On the morning of 28 October 2023, the world’s fashion community received the shocking news that Giorgio Armani, the Italian fashion icon who has shaped the aesthetics of modern couture for more than half a century, had passed away at the age of 89. The 90‑year‑old designer, whose influence stretched far beyond the runway into the realms of advertising, philanthropy, and global business, had been a living legend of Milan’s haute‑couture scene. The news, which arrived through a statement from his public‑relations team, was met with an outpouring of tributes from industry leaders, former employees, and loyal clientele, all of whom recognized that Armani’s absence will leave an indelible void in the fashion world.

A quiet beginning that turned into a global brand

Armani was born on 11 July 1934 in Piacenza, Italy, into a modest family. He began his career as an apprentice to a tailor in Milan in 1955, where he learned the art of cut and construction that would later become his trademark. His first collection, presented at the Galleria d’Arte Moderna di Milano in 1972, quickly captured the attention of Milan’s elite for its clean, tailored lines and restrained elegance— a radical departure from the flamboyant styles that dominated the 1970s.

The designer’s breakthrough came with his creation of the “Armani” collection in 1974. By marrying a crisp silhouette with a minimalist palette, he introduced a new standard of sophistication that resonated with a generation of businessmen and fashion lovers alike. In 1985, he launched his first ready‑to‑wear line, “Giorgio Armani,” which expanded the brand’s reach beyond the luxury segment and into mainstream markets.

The Armani legacy in Milan’s fashion ecosystem

Armani’s influence on Milan— the global epicentre of haute couture— is immeasurable. The designer’s flagship store in the city’s Quadrilatero d’Oro (Golden Rectangle) became an architectural icon and a pilgrimage site for fashion enthusiasts. Armani’s Milan fashion shows, known for their impeccable staging, music, and choreography, set new standards for the presentation of couture. The “Armani Couture” runway, often hosted in the Teatro alla Scala, showcased his signature blend of tradition and modernity, reinforcing Milan’s status as a leading fashion capital.

In addition to his creative output, Armani’s business acumen helped transform the Italian fashion industry into a global powerhouse. His company, Armani S.p.A., which includes the ready‑to‑wear line, accessories, fragrances, and a high‑end hotel chain, has been listed on the Borsa Italiana since 1996. In 2017, the brand was acquired by the Private Equity group Eurazeo, ensuring a robust financial foundation that allowed for continued growth while preserving the artistic integrity that defined the label.

Armani’s influence also extended into philanthropy. Through the Armani Foundation— established in 1999— he has funded educational initiatives, humanitarian projects, and cultural programmes across Italy and beyond. The foundation’s work in disaster relief, particularly after the 2011 earthquake in Japan, showcased the designer’s commitment to leveraging fashion for social good.

A cultural icon whose designs transcend time

Armani’s style— minimalistic, structured, and profoundly elegant— has become a cultural touchstone. His “suits” are considered an essential piece of business attire worldwide, and his “Armani Collezioni” line continues to dominate the luxury market. The designer’s approach to color was equally influential: his palette of soft neutrals and understated tones became the default for sophisticated wardrobes, and his “Armani Privé” collection pushed the boundaries of contemporary couture with avant‑garde silhouettes that still resonate in today’s fashion week runways.

Beyond the runway, Armani’s brand has been embraced by celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries. President Barack Obama and Queen Elizabeth II are among those who have worn Armani suits on key occasions, thereby cementing his influence in both the political and cultural spheres.

The reactions that followed his passing

When the announcement of Armani’s death was made, the industry reacted with a flood of tributes. Miuccia Prada referred to him as a “colleague and friend,” while Tom Ford described him as a “visionary who changed the way we dress.” Former Armani Creative Director Michele Lazzari reflected on how the designer’s commitment to “beauty and respect for the craft” shaped the brand’s identity. On social media, millions of followers shared photos of their most prized Armani pieces, accompanied by the hashtag #ArmaniLegacy, in homage to the man who defined a generation’s sartorial taste.

The Italian government also announced a state funeral in Milan, reflecting the designer’s status as a cultural luminary. In the weeks that followed, the city’s fashion houses staged a commemorative event, featuring a retrospective of Armani’s most iconic collections and a display of his early sketches.

The road ahead for the Armani brand

While Giorgio Armani’s personal hand in design will be missed, his company remains a living entity. Armani S.p.A. is now led by Carlo Caccialupi, who will oversee the brand’s creative direction alongside Francesco Marcolin as chief design officer. The partnership aims to preserve Armani’s signature aesthetic while innovating for new generations. The brand’s ongoing collaborations—including Armani’s partnership with the Louvre and the upcoming launch of an eco‑friendly line, highlight the designer’s enduring commitment to sustainability and cultural stewardship.

Conclusion

The passing of Giorgio Armani marks the end of an era that began in a modest tailor shop and culminated in a global empire that redefined what it means to dress with dignity and grace. His influence on Milan’s fashion scene, his role in shaping the modern luxury market, and his philanthropic endeavors will continue to inspire designers, business leaders, and ordinary consumers for generations to come. As the world mourns a visionary, it also looks forward to the next chapter of the Armani legacy— a chapter that will undoubtedly continue to balance tradition with innovation, and style with substance.