Fashion designer Giorgio Armani, synonymous with modern Italian style and elegance and known worldwide as "King Giorgio," has died at the age of 91, his company announced on Thursday.
Armani, who defined understated luxury and helped turn "Made in Italy" into a global brand of sophistication, was remembered by colleagues, politicians, and admirers as an icon whose influence stretched far beyond the catwalk.
Fashion designer Donatella Versace led tributes, saying, "The world has lost a giant today. He made history and will be remembered forever."
Remo Ruffini, chief executive of Moncler, echoed Armani's own words in his homage: "'Elegance is not about being noticed, it's about being remembered.' Thank you Giorgio."
Employees and family members of the Armani company expressed their grief, calling him the guiding spirit of the fashion house: "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... commit to protecting what he built and to carrying his company forward in his memory, with respect, responsibility, and love."
Italian leaders also hailed Armani's contribution to national culture. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called him "an icon, a tireless worker, a symbol of the best of Italy. With his elegance, sobriety and creativity, he was able to bring lustre to Italian fashion and inspire the entire world. Thank you for everything."
Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani described Armani as "a timeless talent and Made in Italy ambassador in the world. A visionary of fashion, a refined interpreter of the elegance and beauty of our country. His is an extraordinary success story."
Cultural institutions joined in the tributes. Venice's famed opera house, La Fenice, said Armani's legacy would endure: "Giorgio Armani is not just a name but a universal language of elegance, sobriety, and creative strength. An icon who has redefined fashion and will continue to inspire generations. May the earth be light upon you, maestro."
Armani, who founded his fashion house in 1975, built an empire that blended timeless tailoring with global influence, cementing his place as one of the most celebrated designers of the modern era.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ